Page 14 - HS Life booklet for flipbook_2018_04_07

14 History in the Making

Heber Springs was founded as a health resort and first called Sugar Loaf in the
mid-19th century. The name was changed in 1882 to Heber to honor Dr.
Heber Jones, an advocate of the healing powers of the springs. In 1910 the
name was changed to Heber Springs during the glory days of tourism because
of the healing springs. Visitors came from around the country to test the
healing effects of the drinking water from the seven mineral springs. Timber
cutting and logging were the main industries during the early 1900’s which
resulted in the building of a railroad to Heber Springs.

The real growth of Heber Springs and surrounding areas was set in motion
March 1, 1959, when work on the large federal dam on the Little Red River
began. After completion, the lake was dedicated on October 3, 1963 by
President John F. Kennedy. After the lake filled, tourism boomed, many
businesses opened and reopened, and Greers Ferry Lake became one of
Arkansas’ leading destinations. Fifty years later, on October 3, 2013, former
President Bill Clinton addressed thousands of Arkansans from the same
podium used by President Kennedy to commemorate the dedication of the
dam and to celebrate the impact the lake has had on the community.

Today Heber Springs serves as a gateway to Greers Ferry Lake and the Little
Red River where visitors can stop and explore the historic county courthouse
with its traditional square surrounded by gift galleries, boutiques, antique
stores, and eateries. Spring Park, with its seven natural mineral springs that
attracted the original settlers to the area, still serves faithful patrons who ar-
dently attest the medicinal properties of the water.

This perfect balance of weather, scenery and outdoor recreation continues to
attract thousands of visitors and newcomers every year.

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