To mark the commemoration of the Louisiana Purchase Bicentennial, thirteen museums and sites across Arkansas are planning exhibits and programs in 2003 focusing on different aspects of Arkansas's role in the Louisiana Purchase. Exhibits featuring the forgotten expedition of William Hunter and George Dunbar, the art and science of surveying, the history and influence of French culture, explorers and settlers to Arkansas, a look at the Native American view of the Purchase and the geo-political history of the Louisiana Purchase treaty including the world events leading up to the signing of the document that changed the face of the globe will open all throughout the commemoration year.

Programming will highlight the history of the Purchase, life in Colonial Arkansas, the natural environment found in early 19th century Arkansas and more. For information regarding specific dates, topics and programming please contact the individual sites listed below.

Partnering site members of the Louisiana Purchase Bicentennial Committee are the Old State House Museum, the Historic Arkansas Museum, the Delta Cultural Center, the Museum of Discovery and the Arkansas State Capitol, all in Little Rock; the Museum of Natural Resources in Smackover; the Louisiana Purchase Visitor's Center and Museum in Brinkley, the Louisiana Purchase Visitor's Center in Clarendon; Arkansas Post National Memorial, Fort Smith National Historic Site, Hot Springs National Park, White River National Wildlife Refuge in DeWitt; and the Shiloh Museum in Springdale.