Issue link: https://www.epageflip.net/i/1101319
D ecatur, Arkansas is a small town with a big heart that prides itself on its wholesome lifestyle, while also growing with and for its loyal community. Decatur has deep roots in Arkansas' history, provides for its residents with local businesses, schools, parks and services, and plays host to several popular annual events. Decatur is situated in the foothills of the Ozark Mountains, positioned between Gentry and Gravette, just northeast of Siloam Springs on Highway 59. Before Arkansas became a state, there were early settlers in the town who chose to live on the land because of its proximity to a fresh-water spring, and it was first given the name St. Elmo Spring. Early residents later tried to change the name of the town to Corner Springs and Mitchell, before it eventually became Decatur, aer Stephen Decatur, a war hero whose relatives were living in the area at the time. e Kansas City Southern Railroad made a stop in Decatur which greatly helped the early economy as locals were producing and shipping strawberries, peaches, and apple crops. Decatur saw a decline following the Great Depression and crop diseases, but later experienced a revival thanks to the local poultry industry. Local businesses have consistently been a substantial factor in the success of Decatur, and that tradition continues today. e city provides for the majority of the resident's needs and has a bank, medical clinic, convenience store, library, churches, and restaurants, and is always welcoming of new businesses to the area. Additionally, the City of Decatur Chamber of Commerce plays an active role in the local business community by providing services and opportunities for networking. Decatur's Parks and Recreation Department makes enjoying the outdoors a breeze for the entire family. ere are several parks throughout the town, each with its own amenities, as well as playgrounds, walking trails, sports facilities, and beautiful green spaces that are ideal for any Spring day or an aernoon picnic. On the days when the weather isn't perfect, people can stop in to the Iva Jane Peek Public Library and check out Decatur: Rich History, Exciting Present, Bright Future By Brittany Smith | NWA Democrat-Gazette Clara Smith Gomez to a group of students at Northside Elementary in Decatur • photo by Mike Eckels 6 – 2019 Westside Community Guide • Weddings • Funerals • Special Occasions • Fresh Flowers • Plants •Fairy Gardens • Silk Arrangements • Indoor and Outdoor Decor and Garden Statuary Garden Gate THE F L O W E R S & G I F T S 1030 S. Gentry Blvd. • Gentry, AR 72734 PH: 479-736-3313 • gardengateflowersgentry.com Dine In or Carry Out (479) 736-3030 10:30 - 2:00 Mon. - Fri. 5:00 - 9:00 Fri. Evening 1000 S. Gentry Blvd. (Hwy. 59) • Gentry, Arkansas www.woodenspoongentry.com Check Out Our Website for Daily Specials arvest.com Member FDIC Whether you're looking for a commercial loan, an agricultural lender, tailor-made solutions to t all your needs. WE HAVE LOANS FOR ALL YOUR NEEDS 506 First Ave SE, Gravette Auto Loans Personal Loans Home Mortgages Home Equity Lines of Credit Business & Commercial Loans Construction Loans Equipment Finance Agri Loans small personal loans or a mortgage for a new home, we offer competitive loan rates with an easy and timely application process. At Arvest Bank, our lending experts can help you with (479)787-5258