Information
Landmark: CasaBlanca Golf ClubCity: Mesquite
Country: USA Nevada
Continent: North America
CasaBlanca Golf Club, Mesquite, USA Nevada, North America
The Belle Grove Historic District is a designated area in Fort Smith, Arkansas, preserving a collection of early 20th-century structures.
This district encompasses a specific geographic zone within the city, characterized by its preserved architectural heritage.
Visual Characteristics
The district features a concentration of residential and commercial buildings constructed primarily between 1900 and 1930. Architectural styles represented include Queen Anne Revival, Craftsman, and Colonial Revival. Building materials commonly observed are brick, wood siding, and stone foundations. Structures generally exhibit two to three stories in height, with features such as gabled roofs, prominent porches, and detailed trim work.
Location & Access Logistics
The Belle Grove Historic District is located approximately 1.5 kilometers west of downtown Fort Smith. Access is via Garrison Avenue, turning north onto North 14th Street or North 16th Street. Parking is available on-street in designated areas and in several public lots within and adjacent to the district. Public transport options include the Fort Smith Transit Route 3 bus, which services Garrison Avenue.
Historical & Ecological Origin
The district developed as a residential and commercial expansion of Fort Smith following the railroad's arrival in the late 19th century. It was platted and built out primarily between 1900 and 1930, serving as a neighborhood for the city's growing professional and merchant class. The area's development reflects the economic prosperity of Fort Smith during that period.
Key Highlights & Activities
Walking tours of the district are recommended to observe the architectural details of the preserved homes and businesses. Photography of the period architecture is a primary activity. Visitors can explore the streetscapes and note the variety of building styles and historical markers. Some properties may offer limited interior viewing during designated historical society events.
Infrastructure & Amenities
Restrooms are available at nearby public parks and commercial establishments outside the immediate residential core. Shade is provided by mature trees lining many of the streets. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally consistent throughout the district. Food vendors and restaurants are located along Garrison Avenue, a short distance from the district's boundaries.
Best Time to Visit
The best time of day for photography is during the late afternoon, approximately 2-3 hours before sunset, for optimal natural lighting on the building facades. The months of April through October offer the most pleasant weather for walking tours, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 30°C.
Facts & Legends
A notable historical fact is that many of the homes in Belle Grove were built by prominent Fort Smith families who were instrumental in the city's early industrial and commercial growth. The district's preservation efforts began in the late 1970s, recognizing its architectural significance.
Nearby Landmarks
- Fort Smith National Cemetery - 1.2km West
- Judge Parker's Courtroom & U.S. Marshals Museum - 1.8km Southeast
- The Clayton House - 1.5km Southeast
- Riverfront Park - 2.0km East