U.S. Sen. John Boozman has introduced legislation to designate the 3,000-mile Butterfield Overland Trail as a national historic trail.
Boozman filed S. 3519 this month. It is cosponsored by Sens. Tom Cotton, R-Ark.; Martin Heinrich D-N.M.; John Cornyn, R-Texas; and Roy Blunt, R-Mo.
Boozman said the national historic trail designation is important for the states — including Arkansas — through which the trail runs.
“A national historic trail designation recognizes the Butterfield Overland Trail’s important role in the growth and development of our country,” he said. “I will be working with my colleagues to ensure this path carved out and traversed by America’s pioneers is appropriately preserved for future generations to visit and learn about.”
The trail exited Fort Smith at E Street, going west across the Poteau River. A wagon bridge was later built on the site, but it no longer exists. Not much out there at all, any more.