The Baxter County Historical and Genealogical Society will host a presentation on the history of electricity in Arkansas this Tuesday at 6 p.m. The event, which is free and open to the public, will take place at the Donald W. Reynolds Library.
Roy Stovall, a local archaeologist and life member of the Arkansas Archeological Society, will lead the discussion. His program, “How Electricity Came to Arkansas,” will explore the state’s transformation from early lighting methods, such as bear fat lamps, to the development of local power infrastructure, including Mountain Home's electric company and the construction of Norfork and Bull Shoals Dams. Stovall will also address modern advancements, such as artificial intelligence data centers.
Sonny Sharp, a board member of the Baxter County Historical and Genealogical Society, described Stovall as an experienced researcher with a deep understanding of Arkansas history. In addition to his role with the Arkansas Archeological Society, Stovall serves as an Arkansas Master Naturalist and is a board member of the Ozark Keystones Trail Endowment.
The Historical Society encourages anyone interested in local history or advancements in technology to attend the presentation.