This week in Fort Smith history: Jan. 17-23
Staff Writer
Jan. 17, 1909 Deputy Sheriff Claude Thompson arrives in Fort Smith from Grand Junction, Colo., with George C. Wilson, who is charged with assault with intent to kill Dan MacMillan of Heavener several months previously for the purposes of robbery.
Jan. 18, 1917 David Speer, president of Speer Hardware Co., dies suddenly at his home on North Seventh Street. He was 77 years old and had lived in Fort Smith since 1887.
Jan. 18, 1985 The Fort Smith Jaycees honor developer Phil White with the 1984 Distinguished Service Award. Other awards given include Ross Griggs, outstanding young firefighter; Steven Scott, outstanding young law enforcement officer; Bill Cromer, outstanding young educator; and Sebastian County Judge W.R. “Bud” Harper, “Boss of the Year.”