A history of Marion, Arkansas

Marion, county seat of Crittenden County, lies four miles west of the Mississippi River. Within its boundaries are positions of interstate Highway 55, U.S. Highways 61 and 64 and Arkansas Highway 77.

The city embraces about 3,000 acres. The 2000 census gave Marion a population of 8,901, a 103% increase over the 1990 census total. The increase has sparked over $50 Million dollars worth of homes built in Marion in the 90's.

Most of Marion occupies portions of Spanish land grants, issued almost 300 years ago when Spain still held the territory west of the Mississippi River. It's development began in them 1820's when it was chosen to replace Greenock as the county seat of Crittenden County. It's growth was linked to the existence of Military Road - the first Arkansas Federal Highway.

Although primarily a residential community, Marion boasts five banks, numerous concerns serving the surrounding agricultural community, a lamp-manufacturing plant, several smaller industries, a growing Chamber of Commerce, an outstanding school district and community service organizations.

Recreational opportunities in and around Marion include great fishing for bass, catfish and bream, as well as a location in the Mississippi Flyaway duck-hunting area. A host of historic sites are nearby, including Parkin Indian Mound State Park, 20 miles to the west, believed to be the site where Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto camped and evangelized to the Indians. Wapanocca National Wildlife Refuge is 15 minutes away, with great fishing and limited hunting, as well opportunities for watching nature.

The centerpiece of good times in Marion is the annual Esperanza Bonanza Festival, held the first weekend in May. The festival was recognized in 1995 by the Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce as the best project undertaken by a town its size. The festival includes carnival rides, games, entertainment, and a spectacular fire works display for the whole family . A Memphis in May sanctioned event, the Esperanza festival also offers great barbeque and crawfish, with lots of other good southern cookin' as well. A variety of live musical entertainment attracts kids and adults of all ages, from country to Cajun to oldies but goodies. From food to music to fun, the Esperanza Bonanza has a little something for everyone!