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About
Mission

The mission of this organization is to publish a historical journal pertaining to the city of Fort Smith and surrounding area. The style of the publication is The Journal of the Fort Smith Historical Society.
The Society shall collect documents, photographs, and papers. The Society shall collect audio and visual interviews for the purpose of making public history presentations.
The FSHS is a non-profit organization dedicated to community service. It is staffed by volunteers and funded entirely by memberships and contributions.
Values
- Documentary accuracy
FSHS seeks always to maintain the highest journalistic standards in all of our published works. - Historical Inclusiveness
FSHS attempts to present the history of our city and region in a way that is representative of all groups, cultures and lifestyles within our community and, to the extent possible, also represents conflicting perspectives on the impact and significance of those historical events. - Collaborative partnership
FSHS works closely with other complementary organizations and interest groups to create cooperative, synergistic relationships and to maximize our mutual effectiveness. - Accessibility
FSHS makes every effort to make all of our services and programs available to everyone within our community, regardless of status, disability or financial means.
Vision
To be recognized as the enduring voice of Fort Smith history and as a strong advocate for the preservation of that history through our publications, our partnerships and our related services.
The Fort Smith Historical Society will be:
- Recognized as the most authoritative source by persons and organizations seeking information on the history of Fort Smith and the surrounding area.
- At the forefront of efforts to build and maintain a lasting appreciation of Fort Smith’s rich history.
- Routinely involved in helping to create powerful partnerships with like minded civic organizations.
- Known for its expertise in organizing and presenting history in a manner which empowers people and transforms lives.
- Involved in actively engaging a variety of communities in the delivery of relevant history programs and services.
Officers & Board of Directors

Bill Word, President & Membership
Sue Robison, Vice President & Inquiry/Research
Karen Lewis, Treasurer
Sherry Toliver, Past President
Al Whitson, Webmaster
Jerry Akins
Ruth Berry
Mary Carson
Chuck Girard
George McGill
Taylor Prewitt
Floyd Robinson
Caroline Speir
Joe Wasson
Linda Word
The Journal Editorial Board

Joyce Faulkner, Editor
Erin Langford, Editor
Billy Higgins
Steven Kite
George McGill
Loren McLane
Evan Rothera
Lynn Wasson
Cathy Peterson, Designing
Shelley Blanton, Indexing & Proofing
Amelia Whitaker Martin,
Journal Editor & Co-Founder, 1977-2004
Questions and submissions may also be emailed to: FortSmithHistory@gmail.com.
Fort Smith Historical Society Past Officer Listing

The Fort Smith Historical Society has a long list of past officers who have helped guide the organization and preserve the region’s rich history. Dating back to FSHS’s founding in 1977, the list includes the offices of President, Treasurer, and Editor of The Journal for each year.
