Celebrating History, Culture, and Community Year-Round

Every February, communities across the country celebrate Black History Month. In Fort Smith, the event isn’t just about looking back at history; it's about honoring the people, leaders, entrepreneurs, and families who have helped shape this city from the very start.

 

Today, Black-owned businesses in Fort Smith continue to uphold that legacy through entrepreneurship, creativity, and service throughout the River Valley.

 

Diversity has always been a vital part of Fort Smith’s history. From Civil War regiments stationed here to business owners on North 9th Street, from educators at Lincoln High School to nationally recognized figures like Deputy U.S. Marshal Bass Reeves, African American leaders have played a key role in shaping the landscape of opportunity and resilience that still defines our community today.

 

This guide highlights Black-owned businesses in Fort Smith and offers ways to explore the rich history connecting past and present. As the community grows, this resource will be updated to include new businesses and stories.

 

Black-Owned Businesses in Fort Smith

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Fort Smith’s African American community continues to shape the present through entrepreneurship, creativity, and service. The following businesses openly identify as Black-owned and cover a range of industries in the city. This list is updated regularly as new businesses open and the community offers recommendations.

 

  • Social Vibes Video | Owner Joe Cline is a photographer, videographer, and digital creator capturing modern Fort Smith through a creative lens for brands and business owners.

  • Prohibition Bar | A hidden speakeasy in the downtown Entertainment District known for inventive drinks, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere.

  • 7HA 7RU7H LLC | A holistic wellness practitioner dedicated to healing the body, mind, and spirit, offering naturally made body products and doula services.

  • Buckler Detail | Full-service auto detailing that includes everything from quick washes to premium cleanups.

  • The Resolve Center | A flexible event venue suitable for community gatherings, celebrations, and professional functions.

  • House of Barbers | A classic barbershop known for fresh cuts and sharp styles.

  • The Holistic Life Center | A retreat-style spiritual wellness center offering natural, holistic services that help restore balance in mental, emotional, and physical health while encouraging personal and spiritual growth.

  • Brew House Catering & Food Truck | A catering service and food truck known for customized event menus and comforting homemade sides like macaroni and cheese and smoked baked beans. Their team serves weddings, corporate events, and local gatherings with food designed to make any occasion feel special.

  • Big Daddy D’s BBQ & D’s Sweet Treats | Food truck serving homestyle barbecue with classic meats and sweet treats for gatherings and catering.

  • Stain Dr Detail | Professional car detailing services with specialty treatments and convenience options like pick up and delivery!

 

Hair Salons and Natural Haircare in Fort Smith

Ethnic-friendly salons that focus on textured hair, protective styling, braiding, and natural haircare play a vital role in Fort Smith’s beauty and wellness scene. These businesses offer expert care and innovative styling, supporting clients in keeping healthy hair and feeling confident in their personal style.

 

Local businesses serving the community include Twisted Effects Braid Studio (located in Central Mall), Glam Beauty Mart, Diva Ready Hair Salon, and Tam’s Natural Beauty Salon. These salons and beauty retailers support a wide range of haircare needs, from braiding and protective styles to natural hair products and personalized styling services.

 

Haircare has long been a vital part of cultural identity and entrepreneurship in African American communities. In Fort Smith, these salons uphold that tradition by providing welcoming environments where clients can receive specialized care and connect with knowledgeable professionals who understand the unique needs of textured and natural hair.

 

Black History Month Events in Fort Smith

Each February, Fort Smith hosts events that invite reflection, education, and celebration. Event details vary each year, so visitors are encouraged to check local listings for updated schedules.

 

Events often include:

These events provide valuable opportunities to learn more about the people and stories that shaped Fort Smith. They vary each year, but the agencies remain dedicated to sharing these stories annually.

 

Ways to Celebrate Black History Month in Fort Smith

Visitors and locals alike can observe Black History Month in numerous ways throughout the city. 

 

  • Support a Black-owned business and experience the creativity and entrepreneurship shaping Fort Smith today. Let us know if you find a new business not listed above!

  • Discover Southern cooking traditions that have shaped food throughout Arkansas and the wider South.

  • Visit the U.S. Marshals Museum to learn more about Bass Reeves and the wider history of justice and law enforcement in the American West.

  • Pick up a book at Fort Smith Public Library, Bookish, or 10th Street Bookery to deepen your understanding of African American history and local stories.

  • Take time to visit Washington Cemetery, Fort Smith’s historic African American burial ground, and honor the lives of the individuals who helped build this community.

 

Supporting Black-Owned Businesses in Fort Smith

Supporting Black-owned businesses in Fort Smith is a powerful way to experience the city’s culture and entrepreneurial spirit. From barbershops and wellness services to catering, photography, and gathering spaces, these businesses add to the creativity and vibrancy of the Fort Smith community.

 

When you shop locally, book services, or share recommendations with friends, you help strengthen the small businesses that continue shaping the future of Fort Smith.

 

Fort Smith’s Deep Connection to African American History 

Fort Smith’s history is closely linked to African American heritage, and that influence traces back to the earliest days of the city’s development.

 

The 11th Regiment, United States Colored Infantry

In late 1863, after Union forces seized control of Fort Smith during the Civil War, the 11th Regiment of the United States Colored Infantry (USCT) was established there. These soldiers were among the first Black military units in the area and played a crucial role in defending the city while they were stationed at the old fort site.

 

Their duties included strengthening defenses, protecting supply lines, and maintaining order during a turbulent period in the nation’s history. Their bravery and leadership at locations like Gunther’s Prairie helped save Fort Smith and remain an important part of the city’s history.

 

North 9th Street and the Green Book Era 

For decades, North 9th Street served as the center of Fort Smith’s Black community. It was a vibrant commercial and cultural hub with churches, homes, event spaces, and locally owned businesses.

 

During the era of segregation, several properties in the area were listed in The Green Book, the travel guide that helped Black travelers safely navigate the country. The Trent family properties were among those listings, providing lodging and gathering spots for visitors.

 

One of the most beloved spots in the neighborhood was the Trent Fountainette, owned by Mr. Trent and his wife Hattie. The soda fountain was a popular after-school hangout and had the only stainless steel soda fountain in town.

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Lincoln High School

Founded in 1898, Lincoln High School became a symbol of educational excellence for African American students across the region. Some students traveled long distances to attend, with buses bringing students from as far as Fayetteville and within a 50-mile radius.

 

More than 6,000 students have walked through Lincoln High School’s halls, shaping future teachers, professionals, entrepreneurs, and community leaders.

 

Alfonso Trent: Jazz from Fort Smith to the Airwaves

Fort Smith is also the birthplace of Alfonso Trent, one of the most influential jazz musicians of the early 20th century. Born in 1902, Trent led a successful orchestra that achieved one of the first radio broadcasts featuring an African American band.

 

His music traveled across the airwaves from Canada to Dallas, bringing the sound of Fort Smith to audiences all across North America.

 

Leadership Through Service

African American leadership in Fort Smith went beyond business and music. Groups like the Rainbow Girls supported hospital care efforts, while doctors like Dr. McDonald became known for providing healthcare access throughout the community. Dr. McDonald even made house calls to ensure residents received the care they needed, regardless of their circumstances.

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Bass Reeves: A Lawman of Legendary Integrity

No discussion of Fort Smith history <link to article on blog> would be complete without Bass Reeves.

 

A man who was once enslaved and later settled near Van Buren with his family, Reeves became one of the most respected and decorated Deputy U.S. Marshals in the history of the American West. During his career, he traveled over 75,000 miles across Indian Territory and arrested more than 3,000 fugitives.

 

Known for his discipline and integrity, Reeves even arrested his own son when the law demanded it. His legacy continues today through exhibits at the U.S. Marshals Museum and the reputation he earned as one of the greatest lawmen of the Wild West.

 

A Story That Continues 

African American leadership, entrepreneurship, and culture have been a core part of Fort Smith from the start. From Civil War regiments to jazz bands, from neighborhood soda fountains to modern small businesses, these stories are woven into the city's identity.

 

Exploring Fort Smith means discovering the people, places, and traditions that shape its character.

 

This guide to Black-owned businesses in Fort Smith will be updated regularly as new businesses open and the community continues to grow. If you know of a business that should be included, we welcome community suggestions so we can keep telling the full story of Fort Smith.