Best of Siloam Springs

By Karen Rice S iloam Springs has a rich history and a promising future. e 2020 population was 17,495, and Siloam Springs is currently growing at a rate of 1.14% annually. Its population has increased by 16.33% since the 2010 census, which recorded a population of 15,039. e town was founded in 1882 and was characterized by the "medicinal qualities" of the 28 springs that feed Sager Creek. Sager Creek is named in Simon Sager's honor. In 1835, Sager settled on a farm one mile west of what is now the City of Siloam Springs. His original dwelling has been restored and is now located on the campus of John Brown University. In 1879, when it was discovered that the waters of the springs contained purported healing powers, the establishment of a summer resort began. e first anniversary of the town was celebrated on June 24, 1879. In March 1880, J.V. Hargrove laid out the original plat of Siloam City. e name was later changed to Siloam Springs. Due to the reputation gained as a summer resort and the prospect of the railroad through town, the town was incorporated during its first year of existence on Dec. 22, 1881, with a population of more than 3,000. Aer this initial "boom" many of the transient residents returned to their homes and the population dwindled to about half. is was the only time in the history of the town that the population dwindled so rapidly. e first settlement was called Hico, and in 1884 Caldeen D. Gunter settled there. At about this time the Hico Post Office was established. is was later moved to Siloam City (Siloam Springs). Hico was a prominent trading post with the Cherokee nation and consisted of two stores and a mill. In 1892 the town experienced a great flood, which took two lives and destroyed much of the downtown area. Rebuilding began immediately and since that time the town has sustained a steady growth pattern. e coming of the railroad in 1897 stepped up the economy of western Benton County. Orchards, poultry products, hides, wool, beef and all agricultural products found a ready market with the City of Siloam Springs serving as the shipping point and trade center. is trade center remains today, and is a great advantage to industry. Today, Siloam Springs is known for its efforts to preserve and revitalize the city's historic downtown and as a promoter of the arts and education. Each year, during the last weekend of April, approximately 30,000 people gather for the annual Dogwood Festival. With many local amenities being added all the time, Siloam Springs is a place where people want to be and a place that continues to grow and improve. Looking back: history of Siloam Springs Siloam Springs Museum. (Courtesy photo) 14 • Best of Siloam Springs Wednesday, November 9, 2022 Siloam Springs Herald-Leader 702 S. Mt. Olive • Siloam Springs, AR 72761 479-238-1444 Thanks for choosing us the Best of Siloam Springs. We are always humbled by your patronage and it is a privilege to serve Siloam Springs. Flea Market Antiques

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