Arkansas newspapers publish century-old Gentry and Hazen postcards
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Gentry, Arkansas: The Arkansas Democrat-Gazette's 'Postcard Past' feature published a Gentry, circa 1907, image this week showing the Elberta Hotel with a picket fence, a muddy dirt street and a horseless cart pulled by calves; the item was produced by Ray Hanley and includes reader contact information. Readers were invited to send questions or comments to the feature's P.O. Box.
Hazen, Arkansas: In a separate Postcard Past item this week, the Democrat-Gazette published a Hazen, circa 1940 postcard showing the 11-70 Tourist Court, three-pump gas station and signage for cabins, trailer parking and a cafe along U.S. 70; the caption notes U.S. 70 served as the main eastbound route before Interstate 40, and Hanley is credited as producer.
More context
Timeline
- 1. 1907 — Postcard documents Gentry’s Elberta Hotel, muddy street and horseless cart.
- 2. 1940 — Postcard records Hazen’s 11-70 Tourist Court and three-pump gas station along U.S. 70.
- 3. Mid-20th century — U.S. 70 functions as main eastbound route across Arkansas before Interstate 40.
- 4. This week — Arkansas Democrat-Gazette published Postcard Past items produced by Ray Hanley.
- 5. Following publication — Readers are invited to send questions or comments to the provided P.O. Box.
Why it matters
These postcards serve as a window into Arkansas's past. They're a reminder of how our towns have evolved over time. If you're from Gentry or Hazen, or simply love local history, these images offer a tangible connection to your roots.
Sources
JQJO Editorial Desk · Human reviewed · AI assisted. Report a correction.
