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See Monticello, Arkansas
Monticello, located 15 miles from the Mississippi
Delta in the rolling hills of Southern Arkansas, serves
as the retail medical, and cultural center of Southeast
Arkansas. The Trotter House is located in the heart of Monticello's
Historic District and is perfectly located to walk the six
block area north and view Monticello's historic churches
and homes, or venture south just one block to Monticello's
downtown. Visit the merchants around the charming town square
and fountain where in summer, farmers bring their fresh
fruits and vegetables to sell.
Things nearby to see and do:
1.
Monticello's Historic Downtown Square. A local businessman,
Richard Akin has recently completed work on one side of
our beautiful, old-fashioned town square. His efforts to
make the buildings look like the original structures have
enhanced the beauty and appeal of a downtown that struggles
to compete with "newer" stores in the recently
built shopping center on the highway. See the Trotter name
in tiles at the doorstep of the old Trotter Store, now Plantation
Furniture.
2.
Seven Devils Swamp has a legacy of beauty and mystery.
Home to many different species of wildlife, this area is
loved by nature enthusiasts and hunters alike. Now a 5000-acre
wildlife management area, the swamp got its name from a
man at the turn of the century who got lost in the area
for several days. Upon finding his way out, he was asked
if there were indeed seven lakes inside the area as rumored.
He reportedly replied, "Seven lakes Hell, there were
Seven Devils!" We believe this area to be the most
northern point west of the Mississippi where American alligators
can be found. Black bear and bald eagles can also be found
in the area.
3. Lake Monticello. This is a new lake built for
use as a water supply in the event that we no longer have
our natural water table, which serves as our current supply.
The lake is now used for recreation and boasts some of the
biggest large mouth bass in the state.
4. North Main Historic District. This
beautiful street of older homes and oak trees is one of
the favorite places to walk in town. It features homes that
were built by the Trotter and McCloy families mentioned
in my letter. It is also home to the Wood Avenue Presbyterian
Church built in 1907.
5. Drew County Historical Museum. This
is a grandiose old home now housing a Historical Museum
with antique furniture, printing press, clothing, military
items, toys, Native American artifacts and other local memorabilia
of historic interest.
6. Saline River. We are only a few
miles from this beautiful winding river that runs from central
Arkansas to Louisiana. It is known for its gorgeous weeping
willow trees, gravel shoals, and abundant wildlife. It is
a most popular river for fishing and swimming in the summer
but has taken many a life in the spring when it floods and
becomes very dangerous.
7. Drew County Fair-September. A
truly old-fashioned county fair complete with entries of
livestock, homegrown fruits & vegetables, quilts, canned
goods, handmade furniture and flower arrangements. Blue
ribbons given in several categories. The whole thing starts
off with a parade downtown, passing in front of
UAM
Trotter House.
8. Monticello-Drew County Chamber of
Commerce. Located in an historic renovated railroad
depot building. www.montdrewchamber.com
9.
Rough & Ready Days Festival. Featuring the World's
Biggest Chicken Cook-Off. Teams enter to compete for not
only the best tasting chicken but for the best showmanship
and best theme. Live chicken races, and lots of entertainment
make this small town festival great fun.
10. Mink
Track Swamp Tour
11. University of Arkansas at Monticello
- Catch a Boll Weevil football game or a Cotton Blossoms
Ladies Basketball game at UAM. This four year accredited
college is part of the University Of Arkansas System and
has an outstanding programs in Forestry, Music, Education,
and Business: www.uamont.edu
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