CULTURE

Arkansas newspapers publish century-old Gentry and Hazen postcards

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Read, Watch or Listen

Media Bias Meter

Sources: 3

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Sources: 3

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.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.

Timeline of Events

1907 — Postcard documents Gentry’s Elberta Hotel, muddy street and horseless cart.
1940 — Postcard records Hazen’s 11-70 Tourist Court and three-pump gas station along U.S. 70.
Mid-20th century — U.S. 70 functions as main eastbound route across Arkansas before Interstate 40.
This week — Arkansas Democrat-Gazette published Postcard Past items produced by Ray Hanley.
Following publication — Readers are invited to send questions or comments to the provided P.O. Box.

Why This Matters to You

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.

The Bottom Line

The 'Postcard Past' feature is a unique way to learn about Arkansas's history. If you're curious about the stories behind these images, don't hesitate to reach out to the P.O. Box provided. Worth forwarding if you know someone who appreciates a good historical nugget.