Forrest City and St. Francis County (Images of America: Arkansas)

Forrest City was once dubbed the "Jewel of the Delta" because of its prime location in the lower streams and tributaries of the Mississippi River Delta. Native Americans living in the area hundreds of years ago first spoke of the land, celebrating its fertile ground, rich resources, and pleasant climate. Shortly after the Civil War, the east-west and north-south rail lines were established, giving Forrest City railroad access to economic opportunities far beyond the county line. The tracks in and out of town brought a new generation of settlers to the area whose contributions encouraged the town and county to flourish during the height of rail travel. The history of St. Francis County lives on in myriad ways today, including the blues music born from the Mississippi River Delta, the stories of the area's famous cotton trade, and in the tales passed from one generation to another.