02 May 2023 Faulkner turns 150

Patriotic music welcomed several hundred guests to the Faulkner County Courthouse steps on the evening of April 12 for a ceremony marking the county’s 150th birthday.

The courthouse was draped in red, white and blue and Faulkner County Judge Allen Dodson was the master of ceremonies. He had invited about three dozen leaders to speak briefly and to place items into a time capsule that has been buried on the courthouse’s grounds and will be opened in 150 years.   The mayors of Conway, Greenbrier, Guy, Mayflower, Wooster and Vilonia were present with  unique offerings from their communities. A 15th anniversary edition of 501 LIFE Magazine was included in the time capsule. Additionally, former County Judge Jim Baker spoke to the enthusiastic crowd.

Other leaders who were invited represented businesses, nonprofit organizations, law enforcement, media and service organizations. The Vilonia and Greenbrier High School Band members sat together and played a military medley, which included the national anthem.  

Several citizens had been asked to bring antique tractors, trucks, fire trucks and a Model A car to line the street beside the courthouse and take citizens mentally back in time. Fortunately, the weather cooperated and it was a pleasant, sunny day.

The event was the first of several that ran through Saturday, April 15, to celebrate the county’s birthday in a grand fashion. Other events centered around the Toadsuck Ferry refurbishment, and the party culminated on Saturday with tours of the museum, booths, food and an opportunity to contribute to a second time capsule at the Faulkner County Museum.