When traveling to Arkansas this year join the celebration of Hot Springs’ 150th birthday with a gala to be held on August 11 in Horner Hall at the Hot Springs Convention Center. The Birthday Gala benefits the Garland County Historical Society and helps preserve Hot Springs history.
Did You Know? Hot Springs was incorporated as a city on August 11, 1876, after a petition was signed by residents and approved by the governor.
The Hot Springs Timeline:
- Hot Springs has two incarnations: a small town that burned in 1865 and a rebuilt town. Each was incorporated.
- The second incorporation in 1876 established a town government, created city ordinances, and formed police and fire departments.
- On April 5, 1876, County Judge J. W. Jordan certified a petition for incorporation signed by 467 residents.
- I. W. Carhart became the first mayor on May 22, 1876.
- Governor Augustus H. Garland signed a petition declaring Hot Springs a city on August 11, 1876.
- Hot Springs was declared a City of the First Class on January 18, 1879.
Celebrating Hot Springs
“The Birthday Gala will feature a premier cocktail reception, an elegant seateddinner, celebrity guest speakers, live entertainment and a ceremonial cake cutting,” Visit Hot Springs CEO Steve Arrison said.
For a table that seats eight, they are offering a special commemorative coin, just for those attending this special event to celebrate the Sesquicentennial!
"The Garland County Historical Society is very grateful to be the beneficiary of this fundraiser,” Robbins said. “The funds raised will help us preserve Hot Springs history and make its pictures and stories easily accessible to people now and in the future. This is a great way to celebrate our history, especially as we commemorate our city’s 150th birthday."
Join The Hot Springs Birthday Gala
Dress in evening cocktail attire for the event, which kicks off with a reception from 6 to 7 p.m. Dinner will be served starting at 7 p.m. Find more details and order tickets at https://www.hotsprings.org/events/hot-springs-150th-birthday-gala/.
Visit Hot Springs
Go to the Visit Hot Springs website for news on regional attractions, events and places to explore.
Photo Credits - Hot Springs
