Place

Whiskey War

Illustration- angry soldiers around a cannon, and three men standing the doorway of a damaged cabin.
The Bigelow brothers looking out the damaged cabin.

NPS/Michael Haynes

Quick Facts
Location:
Near Railroad Tracks

Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits, Wheelchair Accessible

100 years before Prohibition, it was illegal to sell whiskey to soldiers and Native Americans. These laws did not stop tavern owners in the growing community of Fort Smith. Captain Stuart and the 7th Infantry were tasked with enforcing those laws. During a violent confrontation, Captain Stuart was severely beaten by the Bigelow brothers, owners of one of the taverns. That night soldiers took revenge. 

Fort Smith National Historic Site

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Last updated: January 22, 2021