Located in Fort Smith, Arkansas
Standing regally in the Belle Grove Historic District, the Clayton House serves as a living history book of Fort Smith’s elegant Victorian period during the city’s frontier beginnings on the border of Indian Territory. The Italianate-style mansion also provides a perfect setting for weddings and private gatherings with its stately parlors and expansive grounds.
The Clayton House provides a step back to 1882, the year William Henry Harrison Clayton moved his family into the home that he doubled in size and shaped into an Italianate-style masterpiece. Coal-burning fireplaces and period furnishings in each room place you in a time that featured no indoor plumbing or electricity, but that was rich with austerity. Our guided tour provides a perspective of the mission to bring law and justice to the area from the home of the chief prosecutor of the famous court of Judge Isaac C. Parker.
Please browse our website for details on the history of the home and Mr. Clayton and his family, as well as our event rental options. The Clayton House is maintained and operated by the nonprofit Fort Smith Heritage Foundation, which led its restoration after saving the home from demolition in 1969. We thank you for your support of the Clayton House, as well as your participation in our many programs and events.
Coming Up at The Clayton House
Clayton Conversation: J. Fred Patton
514 N 6th St, Fort Smith, AR, United States, Arkansas 72901 Map
Join us at The Clayton House for a special Clayton Conversation featuring J. Fred Patton, presented by his granddaughter, Christie Dawson.
Come hear the story of J. Fred Patton through the memories of someone who knew him as family. His granddaughter will share personal stories, family memories, and insights into the life and legacy of a man who was an important part of the Fort Smith community.
Come enjoy an afternoon of history, storytelling, and personal connection as we discover more about J. Fred Patton and the legacy he left behind in Fort Smith.
Refreshments at 2:00 Conversation at 2:30
Free for FSHF members
$10 donation for mom-members.
Downtown Fort Smith
Fall is coming to Fort Smith!
Join us for the 7th Annual Fort Smith Fall Festival on Saturday, October 24, 2026, from 10 a.m.–4 p.m. for one of Fort Smith's biggest and most beloved family events!
Experience a full day of FREE history, hands-on activities, arts, shopping, live demonstrations, and family fun throughout downtown Fort Smith.
Festival Highlights:
- 80+ living history reenactors at Fort Smith National Historic Site
Infantry, cavalry & cannon demonstrations
- Belle Starr Trial reenactment
- Free admission to the Fort Smith Museum of History
- Free Open House at the Clayton House with activities for Judge Clayton’s Birthday
- Free Open House at Miss Laura's Brothel Museum (and GRAND REOPENING!)
- Free Fall Family Day at the Fort Smith Regional Art Museum
- Free trolley rides at the Fort Smith Trolley Museum
- Discounted admission at the U.S. Marshals Museum (until 4 p.m.)
- Fort Smith Farmers Market (7 a.m.–Noon)
- Nearly 100 artisan and retail vendors
- Delicious food trucks
-FREE shuttle service connecting festival locations throughout downtown
Whether you're a history buff, shopping for handmade goods, or looking for a fun day with the family, there's something for everyone at the Fort Smith Fall Festival!
Downtown Fort Smith
Saturday, October 24, 2026
10 a.m.–4 p.m.
For maps, schedules, parking information, and more, visit www.fortsmithfallfest.com.
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