Take a journey this October with Arkansas PBS through the state with a special lineup of “From the Archives” programs. Showcasing stories that capture Arkansas’s history, culture and identity, revisit documentaries and specials that explore everything from the evolving character of Hot Springs and the vital role of railroads to the rise of mid-century modern architecture, the richness of Arkansas folklore and the state’s most “haunted” landmarks.
Tune in or stream each Thursday at 7 p.m.
“City of Visitors: The Story of Hot Springs” – Oct. 2, at 7 p.m.
Hot Springs has undergone decades of struggle over its moral and civic identity. Told through the eyes of local historians, journalists and those who grew up in Hot Springs, “City of Visitors: The Story of Hot Springs” provides a snapshot of the transformations that took place across the southern United States after World War II.
“Steel Rails of Arkansas” – Oct. 9, at 7 p.m.
Arkansas has more than 2,700 miles of railroad track operated by 20 different railroads, making rail transportation a significant part of the state’s history, heritage, and economy. “Steel Rails in Arkansas” explores the railroads of Arkansas, featuring trains in action, restored railroad depots, train shows, and miniature train layouts.
“Clean Lines, Open Spaces: A View of Mid-Century Modern Architecture” – Oct. 16, at 7 p.m.
The film focuses on the construction boom in the United States after World War II. Sometimes considered cold and unattractive, mid-century modern designs were a by-product of post-war optimism and reflected a nation’s dedication to building a new future. This new architecture utilized modern materials, including reinforced concrete, glass, and steel, and was characterized by clean lines, simple shapes, and unornamented facades.
“Once Upon a Time in Arkansas” – Oct. 23, at 7 p.m.
Arkansas’s culture blends sharecroppers’ stories, myths of the Wild West and tall tales from the deepest hollers. What power does storytelling hold, and what does it mean for our state? Dive into a unique catalog of Arkansans’ folklore – and see how it shaped the way we view ourselves and the South.
“Hauntings of Arkansas: A Special Edition of Exploring Arkansas” – Oct. 30, at 7 p.m.
Some of Arkansas’s most notorious and scariest places are featured in this special edition of “Exploring Arkansas.” Visit “haunted” places – the Crescent Hotel in Eureka Springs, the Basin Park Hotel in Eureka Springs, the Allen House in Monticello, the King Opera House in Van Buren, the Peel Mansion in Bentonville and the MacArthur Museum of Arkansas Military History in Little Rock.
HOW TO WATCH
Check out the full schedule at myarpbs.org/schedule to continue the summer adventure!
Watch “City of Visitors: The Story of Hot Springs” on YouTube at myarpbs.org/youtube.
Watch “Steel Rails of Arkansas” on YouTube at myarpbs.org/youtube.
Watch “Clean Lines, Open Spaces: A View of Mid-Century Modern Architecture” on demand at myarpbs.org/youtube.
Watch “Once Upon a Time in Arkansas” on demand at watch.myarkansaspbs.org.
Watch “Hauntings of Arkansas: A Special Edition of Exploring Arkansas” on demand at watch.myarkansaspbs.org.