The History of Crowley’s Ridge
“Where were you when I laid the foundation of the earth? Tell me, if you have understanding. Who determined its measurements- surely you know! Or who stretched the line upon it? On what were its bases sunk, or who laid its cornerstone?”
Dear Friends, We have mentioned before that Lynn’s Landing is situated on a land formation called Crowley’s Ridge. Yet, we haven’t told you that geologically, the structure of this land is a unique formation. Also, the ridge has a deep historical connection with the formation of the State of Arkansas and American History.
This 210-mile formation extends in a crescent shape from Cape Girardeau, Missouri, to Helena, Arkansas. It rises 250-500 feet above the flat Mississippi Alluvial Plain. This formation earned the name “Upland in the Lowlands” from the unique fact that these hills are formed between two flat plains, with no fault line in sight. The theory behind the formation of Crowley's Ridge is that a flood or glacier deposited clay, gravel, sand, and even some fossils. This ground supports forests of hardwood trees, and native animals thrive in Crowley’s Ridge. There is no other formation like Crowley’s Ridge in America.
The history behind Crowley’s Ridge seems a little accidental. Benjamin Crowley, after serving in the War of 1812, was given a land grant for his service north of the Ridge. In the years 1811-1812, Crowley’s land was destroyed by the New Madrid earthquakes, so he looked for a suitable tract of land to build his home. He found this land formation and became one of the first white settlers in Arkansas. Soon after, more settlers came, and Crowley became a leader among the people. They established Green County, with his home as the first county seat. When he died, they named the ridge after him.
The Native Americans in this area included the Quapaw, Osage, and even the Cherokee, who migrated there as the United States expanded west. The name “Arkansas” is originally derived from the Quapaw language, meaning “South Wind.” This tribe encamped on the ridge during hunts. However, the sad part of American History shows the Trail of Tears extending to even this beautiful ridge, as the land was bought by the United States for such a low price, a contract. Today, however, you can find some historical native settlements on the ridge, and some people in these areas can claim native blood in their ancestry.
On the more mythological side, Crowley's Ridge is known for Bigfoot or Feral human sightings. Rumors are that after the earthquakes in 1811, some people went insane on the hills and became feral. Another explanation for these strange sightings is that Bigfoot lives in these hills! Be on the lookout for anything strange when you visit!
Crowley’s Ridge is such a beautiful place to visit, and the natural land has been the perfect scenery for Lynn’s Landing. We hope you book a tour and experience the land yourself!
Meadow
Lynn’s Landing is located in Crowley’s Ridge, steeped in natural beauty.
