History:

Batesville is the oldest existing city in the State of Arkansas. By a treaty of 1808 the Osage Indians ceded this territory to the U.S. and unlike most of the territory of Arkansas, it was never again returned to Indian control. However, the territory just south of the river was held by the Cherokee Indians from 1808 to 1817.

The City has existed under three names: Napoleon, Poke Creek, and finally Batesville in honor of Judge James Woodson Bates, the first Territorial Delegate to Congress. He came to Batesville in 1819 and was one of the most prominent citizens of the community for fifteen years. His brother, Honorable Edward Bates of St. Louis, was Attorney General under President Lincoln. The Bates brothers originally came from Virginia.

Batesville became the county seat in 1821 and on November 19, 1821 the first court of common please was held, Judge Richard Peel and William Moore presiding. This seems to have been the last court of this nature for in January 1822 Honorable Richard Searcy opened the first circuit court. This was the only court until on April 29, 1830. This first county court was held by James Boswell.

Batesville is now a city of over 9,000 citizens. Its growth is attributed to its natural resources such as water, climate, location, minerals and timber. The area’s economy is well diversified among industry, agriculture and tourism. Just as the early settlers needed water for navigation, food, and drinking purposes, so has Batesville given credit to the beautiful White River as our most important natural resource.