Conestoga Golf Club | Mesquite

The Chaffee Crossing Historic District is a former military installation located in Fort Smith, Arkansas.

Visual Characteristics

The district comprises a collection of utilitarian brick buildings constructed in the 1940s. Structures are typically two stories in height with flat roofs and simple rectangular window openings. The primary building material is red brick, with concrete foundations and trim. The landscape is characterized by paved roads, open grassy areas, and mature trees.

Location & Access Logistics

Chaffee Crossing is situated approximately 10 kilometers west of downtown Fort Smith. Access is via State Highway 22 (Grand Avenue) and then north on Chaffee Road. Ample free parking is available within the district. Public transportation options are limited; the nearest bus route stops several kilometers south of the district.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The site was established in 1941 as the Chaffee Military Reservation, named after Major General Adna R. Chaffee Jr. It served as a training facility during World War II and later as a prisoner-of-war camp. The original purpose was military training and housing.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can explore the preserved military buildings, some of which house museums or community facilities. Walking tours of the district are available. The open spaces are suitable for passive recreation.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available in select buildings. Shade is provided by mature trees. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally good. Food vendors are not consistently present within the district; dining options are located in nearby commercial areas.

Best Time to Visit

The best time of day for photography is late afternoon when the sun angle provides definition to the brickwork. The most favorable months for visiting are April through October, avoiding extreme summer heat and winter conditions.

Facts & Legends

During its operation as a POW camp, German prisoners of war were housed here. A notable historical oddity is the presence of a preserved mess hall that still contains original kitchen equipment.

Nearby Landmarks

• Creekmore Park (1.5km Southeast)
• Fort Smith National Cemetery (3.0km East)
• Belle Grove Historic District (4.0km East)
• Fort Smith Museum of History (4.5km East)