Tom Wing, assistant professor of history, director of the historical interpretation program at UA Fort Smith and site director of U of A's Drennen-Scott House, was the guest speaker at Monday night's meeting of the Historical Society.
Tom's overview of the historic Drennen-Scott property and its connections to the Underground Railroad, Trail of Tears and Civil War provided insight into the home's significance in Arkansas and American history. John Drennen, a founder of the city of Van Buren, began building the house in 1836. SSCHS members and guests learned that it has been continuously occupied by Drennen descendants until the university acquired the house in 2005. Drennen was a wealthy plantation owner and chief Indian agent of the area. He was co-chair of the Arkansas Constitutional Convention. Prominent men of the era, including Sam Houston and Albert Pike, were visitors in the home. The home was occupied by Union troops during the Civil War. Artifacts have been found on the grounds.
Members look forward to visiting the facility. Many thanks to Tom for his wonderful presentation.
