Finding Southern Charm In Wilson, AR.

We found one of the south’s cutest little towns just a short drive from home! If small towns with big history are your thing, you have to check out Wilson, AR. This little hidden gem of a town is just a short drive from Memphis, TN and definitely worth making a day trip to check out. Read on to find out all about all about Wilson, and what to do while you’re there.

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Location of Wilson, AR

Wilson is located the Arkansas Delta, approximately 45 minutes north of Memphis Tennessee. From Memphis take I-55 northbound, turning east on Hwy 181 at Exit 36. Turn left onto Hwy 61 and you’ll run right into Wilson about 5 miles later.

How Did Wilson Get It’s Name?

The town of Wilson actually began as a company town, founded in 1886 by R.E. Lee Wilson. Mr Wilson established the town to serve the needs of his logging company and lumbar mill in the area. After clearing the land of timber, Mr Wilson turned to agriculture and built a cotton farming empire in the area. In addition to farming, Mr. Wilson employed various other trade workers such as automobile mechanics, grocery workers, and dry cleaners to keep the standard of living high for the residents. It’s been reported that company doctors were available to the vast majority of the town’s inhabitants for a paltry $1.25 annual fee which was quite a luxury for many poor Arkansans.

As the Great Depression hit in the early 1930s the town began to suffer, and as the agriculture industry slowed dramatically many of the residents moved off in search of work. Unfortunately, the trend of decreasing population continued as modern machines began to replace they need for human laborers out in the field. Eventually the town incorporated in 1959, thereby ending its privately owned status as homes and buildings were sold to citizens.

The Resurgence Of This Arkansas Gem

As of the 2020 US census, Wilson boasts a population of 766 people. These hard working folks, along with nearby farm owners and town managers, have made great strides in bringing pride back to this delta community while also revamping and reimagining Wilson for the future. While cotton is still the main revenue generating business in the area, the community now also offers several boutique shops, cultural activities and and delicious dining…turning itself into a delightful day trip destination.

What To See And Do In Wilson

The Wilson Café and Tavern

This little restaurant serves up some of the best chicken and waffles you’ll ever taste! Their menu includes many other entrées as well as soups and salads…and the decor is super trendy also.

The Grange at Willson Gardens

This venue offers a place where locals can sell homegrown produce, plants, clothes and crafts. It also has a kitchen where they will slice you up some delicious southern baked goods. While we were there they even had a super cool art show that offered free admission.

White’s Mercantile

This high end/boutique style shop has a classic at General Store feel and is located in an old gas station in the town square. The store is owned by Holly Williams (Hank Williams Jr’s daughter) and is her 3rd one.

Hampson Archaeological Museum State Park

This Arkansas State Park is also located directly in the Wilson town square. It features a variety of Native American artifacts from the nearby Nodena site dating back to the 1400s. Dr. James K Hampson is credited with recovering and cataloging many of the archaeological items on display. Doctor Hampson painstakingly unearthed many clues about the Nodena people based on the artifacts found on his farm.

The Outdoor Center

Rent a bike here and enjoy a leisurely afternoon exploring the area.

Wilson Pharmacy

Not only is this a working pharmacy, but it’s also a classic gift shop with some of the cutest merchandise around.

Johnny Cash’s Childhood Home

The childhood home of the “Man in Black” is located in Dyess Arkansas, a mere 20 minute drive from Wilson. It’s definitely worth making the short drive to see the humble beginnings of such an iconic American musician. Read all about its unique history and humble beginnings here.

Coming Soon

As if all of this was not enough, plans for a luxury hotel in Wilson are underway and have a May 2022 open date. In addition, they plan to open an RV resort with RV camping, glamping, and even cabins in the area!

So, what are you waiting for?!?! Get out and explore this friendly, quaint, southern gem of a town the next time you’re in the mid-south area !