If there’s a place in Arkansas that defines the phrase “small town,” the designation would hands-down go to Cherokee City. Named for the largest of the over 500 federally-recognized Native American tribes, many of whom traveled across the area to the so-called “Indian Territory” that the government had designated for them. According to a book about the state’s history published in 1889, David Chandler first surveyed the land in 1880 for James Ingle, M.D. Cunningham and himself. They were the original owners of the land on which the town now sits. The village was constructed approximately three-quarters of a mile from the border of the Indian Territory. Cherokee City was invested in and expanded in 1881 and 1882 for use as a summer resort. Newly arrived immigrants constructed the area quickly, and as a result, many of the original houses were small and, to early residents’ collective dismay, were not built to last. Though the city was first platted in 1880, the local post office opened in 1871 and served the public for over a century before finally closing its doors in 1953.

Within the first decades of its founding, the population of Cherokee City swelled from its original few settlers to about 200 total people. Today that population has dwindled to about one-fourth of that number, reportedly hovering between 47 and 51 people depending on the day. Because this hamlet is so tiny, it is predominantly filled up with residential homes, but there are many options for entertainment that are only a short drive away. Nearby, Siloam Springs has several attractions that make for a good time, one of which is the Siloam Springs Farmer’s Market. The market, a non-profit program based on preservation and economic development, has been running from April to October for over nine years, providing fresh produce and other handmade materials and knickknacks to the community.

Another nearby opportunity for a good time is the Wild Wilderness Drive-Through Safari. This incredible, unique attraction, despite the name, not only includes a four-mile drive-through safari full of wild animals that can, and will, get up close and personal with your vehicle, but also has a ten-mile walk-through with picnic areas and a gift shop where you can pick up souvenirs to remember your time among the wild animals. The 400-acre facility provides as close to their diverse catalog of animals’ natural habitats as they can get, from the lush greenery to the several large ponds scattered around the grounds. From your vehicle, make sure to keep your eyes peeled for a long list of majestic animals, including lions, tigers, bears – Oh My! – and many more. While traversing the nature trail, you’ll see such diverse animals as pygmy goats, miniature donkeys, capuchins, several species of monkeys, the list goes on and on.

Though the population of Cherokee City is tiny, the pride that residents of the rustic little village feel for their home is anything but. If you live in this tiny town or elsewhere in the northwest Arkansas region and you’re ready to have your nuisance wildlife problems obliterated, it’s time for you to get ahold of Natural State Wildlife Solutions. Our experts are waiting to give the critters that are invading your home the boot. Contact us today for an estimate.