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This Day in Arkansas History

November 5, 1849

Patrick Ronayne Cleburne, later the highest-ranking Irish-born officer in American military history, boarded the ship Bridgetown for America, landing in New Orleans, Louisiana, on Christmas Day. Cleburne entered the Civil War as commander of the Yell Rifles, which became part of the First Arkansas Volunteer Infantry Regiment. He became a drugstore owner and lawyer in his new Arkansas hometown of Helena (Phillips County) and was a delegate to the Democratic Convention in 1858. Cleburne County was named for him when it was established in 1883.

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Marjorie Lawrence

When renowned Australian-born soprano star Marjorie Lawrence was stricken with polio in 1941, her husband rushed her to Hot Springs (Garland County) for the healing baths. The couple remained there for most of the rest of their lives. After extensive rehabilitation, she was able to return to the Metropolitan Opera and her career in 1942, singing from a couch. She died in 1979 and is buried in Greenwood Cemetery in Hot Springs.

 

When renowned Australian-born soprano star Marjorie Lawrence was stricken with polio in 1941, her husband rushed her to Hot Springs (Garland County) for the healing baths. The couple remained there for most of the rest of their lives. After extensive rehabilitation, she was able to return to the Metropolitan Opera and her career in 1942, singing from a couch. She died in 1979 and is buried in Greenwood Cemetery in Hot Springs.

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About the Encyclopedia

The CALS Encyclopedia of Arkansas is a free, authoritative source of information about the rich history, geography, and culture of Arkansas. It is updated regularly to ensure the people of Arkansas have an accurate and accessible resource to explore our heritage. We invite you to browse our text entries and media galleries to learn more about the people, places, events, legends, and lore of the 25th state. We are continually adding new entries, photographs, maps, videos, quizzes, lesson plans, and more, so check back frequently to see what’s new.

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