Calico Rock will honor the legacy of Vada Sheid, a trailblazing figure in Arkansas history, with a special dedication on Wednesday. The mayor is set to officially declare August 19 as 'Vada Sheid Day' at a public reception beginning at 11 a.m. at the Calico Rock Museum, located on Main Street.
Born on August 19, 1916, in Izard County, Sheid spent her early years in Calico Rock before attending Draughon School of Business in Little Rock. Her career in public service began as the Izard County welfare director, a position that would pave the way for her later work at the state level.
After marrying Carl Sheid in 1940, the couple settled in Mountain Home, where they established several businesses, including Sheid’s Furniture. Vada Sheid transitioned into politics in 1960, becoming Baxter County treasurer. In 1966, she was elected to the Arkansas House of Representatives, followed by a successful bid for the Arkansas Senate in 1976. She was the first woman in state history to serve in both chambers of the Arkansas General Assembly.
Sheid earned a reputation as an advocate for education and infrastructure, championing causes critical to the Twin Lakes Area. Her efforts were instrumental in the creation of Arkansas State University-Mountain Home and UA Northark. Among her lasting achievements was her push for highway improvements and the construction of crucial bridges over Norfork Lake.
Her son, Richard Sheid, recounted a notable moment when Vada Sheid lobbied President Richard Nixon in Washington, D.C., to secure support for the Norfork Lake bridges, exemplifying her resolve to bring Northern Arkansas’s voice to a national stage. He noted there will be a special exhibit at the Calico Rock Museum during Wednesday’s event, showcasing her life and legacy.
Wednesday’s event is one of two commemorations planned this month to honor the late Sheid. A separate event will take place in Little Rock on August 27.
The public is invited to attend the dedication. The Calico Rock Museum is located at 105 Main Street.