Know the History
About the Museum
The Conway County History Museum is dedicated to preserving and sharing the stories, artifacts, and photographs that tell the history of Conway County. Located within the historic Morrilton Depot, the museum serves as a place where residents and visitors can explore the people, events, and industries that have shaped Conway County from prehistoric times to the community it is today. Through carefully preserved collections and exhibits, the museum helps connect today's generations with the community's rich and diverse past.
The museum's home is an important part of that story. Built in 1915, the depot stands as a reminder of the railroad's significant role in Conway County's development. Rail service helped transform the county, influencing commerce, transportation, and population growth for generations. Although passenger service ended in 1954 and freight service ended in 1960, the depot remained a recognizable landmark in Morrilton. When local citizens learned in the 1970s that the building was slated for demolition, they quickly organized efforts to save it. Their dedication led to the purchase of the depot by the newly formed Conway County Historical Preservation Association in 1978, preserving an important piece of Conway County history.
Today, the restored depot serves as the Conway County History Museum, where visitors can explore exhibits that highlight the people, places, and events that shaped the county. Young children enjoy a treasure hunt we have where they try to locate specific items in those exhibits. From the era of river trade and railroad expansion to local industries and community heritage, the museum offers a unique glimpse into Conway County's past. Our exhibits include Native American artifacts, items and photos from area schools, businesses and homes, a Black History section, genealogical resources, and yes, since we are in a former train depot, a few railroad artifacts. Whether you have deep roots in the area, are researching local history or your family genealogy, or are simply passing through, we invite you to visit the Conway County History Museum and experience a touch of history for yourself.
Original Ticket Agent's desk from the Morrilton, AR, Train Depot
TrailLog
Artwork depicting the Cherokee Trail of Tears and in honor of the resilience of a mother protecting her child.
Native American Exhibit
Many of these Native American tools were discovered in the Lewisberg area near the Arkansas River.
Perforating Machine
A specialized printing machine used to create perforated lines in paper, allowing sections to be easily detached.
African American Exhibit
Once designated as the "Colored Waiting Room," this historic space has been transformed into a Black History exhibit that preserves and shares the stories of African Americans who helped shape Conway County's history.
*Hover over each image to read about the exhibit.
Conway County was established in 1825, making it 11 years older than the state of Arkansas. It is located in the Arkansas River Valley region, an area shaped by its river systems, fertile land, and surrounding foothills. The county originally was larger, including part or all of the current counties of White, Faulkner, Perry, and Van Buren Counties. At that time, its western boundary served as the western edge of the United States. The county covers a mix of rolling farmland, forested ridges, and scenic landscapes such as Petit Jean Mountain, with the Arkansas River playing a central role in its early settlement and long-term development.
"The soil of Conway County holds not just the roots of crops, but the roots of families -- and the memory of all who came before."
In its earliest years, the county’s growth was closely tied to river transportation and trade. Communities developed along the Arkansas River, where steamboats carried goods and passengers through the region. Lewisburg became one of the county’s earliest centers of activity, serving as both a trading post and the county seat during the 1800s, reflecting its importance in the county’s early government and commerce.
As transportation evolved, the arrival of the railroad in the late nineteenth century brought major change to Conway County. The new rail line built north of Lewisburg shifted growth and development toward emerging communities, leading to the incorporation of Morrilton in 1879. Morrilton later became the county seat in 1883 and remains the largest city in the county today, continuing its role as a hub of government, business, and daily life.
Use Slider to See Conway County Before & After
Conway County’s history is also shaped by its place in broader national events and movements. The region was part of the route of the Cherokee Trail of Tears, and like much of Arkansas, it was impacted by the Civil War and the economic changes that followed. These events left lasting marks on the land and communities throughout the county.
In the twentieth century, Conway County continued to grow through agriculture, manufacturing, local industry, and tourism. Conway County was home to Winthrop Rockefeller, Governor of Arkansas from 1967-1971, who brought many industries and jobs to Arkansas and to Conway County. Institutions such as our local hospital, the University of Arkansas Community College at Morrilton, and Petit Jean State Park, as well as businesses such as Crompton Mills, Petit Jean Meats, and the Green Bay Paper Mill, became part of the county’s economic identity, providing employment and helping shape the modern community. These industries, along with schools, local businesses, and civic organizations, contributed to the county’s steady development.
Today, Conway County is home to a diverse mix of communities and institutions that reflect both its historic roots and continued growth. Its story is one of adaptation and resilience, shaped by the river, the railroad, and the people who have called it home for generations.
Use Slider to See Conway County Before & After
About Conway County
What is the CCHPA?
The Conway County Historical Preservation Association (CCHPA) is a nonprofit organization based in Morrilton, Arkansas, dedicated to preserving and promoting the history of Conway County. Founded in 1976, the association was formed by community members who recognized the importance of protecting local heritage, historic places, and the stories that define the county.
One of the association’s most important accomplishments was the preservation of the historic Morrilton Depot. When the building faced demolition in the 1970s, concerned citizens organized efforts to save it. Their work led to the purchase of the depot in 1978, ensuring that this landmark would remain part of Conway County’s history and eventually become the home of the Conway County History Museum.
Today, the CCHPA continues its mission through the operation of the museum, the preservation of historical materials, places, and buildings, and community engagement efforts that keep local history accessible and alive. We have obtained Historical Site certification for many buildings and sites in Conway County. As a nonprofit organization recognized within the historical preservation field and affiliated with the American Alliance of Museums Southeast Region, the CCHPA remains committed to protecting Conway County’s heritage. New members are always welcome! Join us in preserving the history of Conway County for future generations.
CCHPA 2026 Board Members
President
Bill Holt
Vice President
Rick Houston
Treasurer
Gwen Massingill
Secretary
Phyllis McKuin
Become a Member
Your membership supports the preservation of Conway County's history and keeps our museum vibrant and accessible to the entire community. Enjoy the pride of contributing to our shared heritage.
*Stop by the museum to join! Please make all membership fee checks payable to the Conway County Historical Preservation Association. Checks can be mailed to
Conway County Historical Preservation Association, P O Box 417, Morrilton, AR, 72110.
