Standing proudly in Marianna, Arkansas, the Marianna Centennial Marker has a rich history waiting to be discovered. As you approach this remarkable landmark, imagine a time over two centuries ago when the first child of Anglo-Saxon parents was born west of the Mississippi River right here in 1790. The marker itself was dedicated in 1961, serving as a testament to the sites significance and the lives that were forever intertwined with this land.
The Battle of Marianna on September 27, 1864, played a crucial role in the American Civil War. As you close your eyes, envision the chaos and intensity of the battle between Union and Confederate forces as they clashed on the very ground beneath your feet. The marker stands as a symbol of the courage and determination displayed by both sides during this pivotal moment in history.
As we move closer to the present day, the Davis West House comes into focus. Constructed in the 1840s by John Davis for his daughter, Rebecca Davis Spears, it represents the remarkable architectural prowess of that time and offers a glimpse into the lives of Mariannas early settlers.
The Marianna Centennial Marker is more than just a piece of stone; it is a portal to our past. It invites us to take a step back in time, immerse ourselves in the stories of courage and determination that shaped this land, and remember those who left their mark on history. So, as you stand before this iconic marker, let your imagination run wild, and lose yourself in the fascinating tales it has to tell.