Welcome to the Encyclopedia of Arkansas

This Day in Arkansas History

May 27, 1846

Governor Thomas S. Drew called for Arkansas volunteers to fight in the Mexican War. Within weeks, hundreds of eager volunteers made their way to Washington (Hempstead County) to be mustered into service. Captain Solon Borland’s company of Arkansas volunteers elected Archibald Yell as their colonel; Yell, former Democratic governor of Arkansas, hoped to further his political career by becoming a war hero. He tried to keep his seat in Congress (and even elevate it to a Senate seat), but a hostile legislature forced him to resign his congressional seat.

Learn more about Mexican War

Browse the Encyclopedia

About the Encyclopedia

The CALS Encyclopedia of Arkansas is a free, authoritative source of information about the rich history, geography, and culture of Arkansas. It is updated regularly to ensure the people of Arkansas have an accurate and accessible resource to explore our heritage. We invite you to browse our text entries and media galleries to learn more about the people, places, events, legends, and lore of the 25th state. We are continually adding new entries, photographs, maps, videos, and audio files, so check back frequently to see what’s new.

New to Arkansas?
New to Arkansas?

Our overview page covers everything you would want to know about our beautiful state, including state symbols, demographics and more!

See Overview