Historical Museum News

Courtesy photo Xyta Lucas

Courtesy photo Xyta Lucas

Wednesday, May 16, 2018

Fay Jones Exhibit

A long-term special exhibit will be on display at the museum from June through December, on loan from the State Archives office in Little Rock. It will consist of three large folding panels that focus on world-renowned architect Fay Jones and his work. Jones is the only student of Frank Lloyd Wright to receive the prestigious American Institute of Architects Gold Medal in 1990. Three samples of his work exist in Bella Vista, the Cooper Chapel, the Bella Vista Country Club and a private residence. A program about his work will be presented at the July 12 History Club meeting.

E.L. Keith Exhibit

Thanks to the generosity of the Keith family, the museum holds an interesting permanent exhibit on the years that E.L. Keith owned Lake Bella Vista and the Summer Resort, from the time he bought it from the Linebargers in 1952 until he sold it to John Cooper Sr. in 1963. He built a motel and restaurant at the west end of the Lake Bella Vista Dam and opened a Trout Farm east of the lake. Please stop in and take a look.

Pioneer Cabin Project

The Bella Vista Historical Society has continued to work on the previously announced project of the pioneer log cabin, to be donated to the museum by Scott and Angie Butler. Research into more of the history of the original cabin is being conducted. We anticipate getting the cabin moved to the museum grounds by this fall. We have been approved for a grant by the Benton County Historical Preservation Commission to pay for some of the expenses but still need support to make this project a reality. Businesses and organizations, as well as individuals, are welcome to make a donation by mailing it to or dropping it off at the museum or going online to www.gofundme.com/cabinfever. Any donation over $100 will be recognized on a plaque inside the cabin.

Long-term Residents of Bella Vista

The museum staff would like to find the residents who have lived in Bella Vista the longest and recognize them at a future event. If you know someone who has lived in Bella Vista for 30-40 years or more, please contact the museum at 479-855-2335 and leave your contact information.

New Gift Shop Merchandise

In addition to the beautiful jigsaw puzzles of Bella Vista scenes, there are now coloring books that feature Northwest Arkansas, a specially made Bella Vista Christmas ornament, and a new book on the Birds of Arkansas. These are great gifts for both children and adults. The Historical Museum is a wonderful source of Bella Vista souvenirs -- stop in and browse!

Private tours available

Private tours of the museum are available outside of normal open hours for church groups, students, civic clubs, businesses, etc. To arrange for a tour, leave a message at the museum, 479-855-2335, or contact Xyta Lucas at 479-876-6118.

Hours of operation

The Historical Museum is located at the corner of Highway 71 and Kingsland, next door to the American Legion, and is open 1 to 5 p.m. Wednesdays through Sundays. Phone 479-855-2335. The website is www.bellavista.museum.org.

Community on 05/16/2018