Old logging town has rich, interesting history
Outdoor writer and photographer Corbet Deary is featured regularly in The Sentinel-Record. Today, Deary takes readers on a journey to Mauldin.
In light of the fact that last week’s destination article focused on Forester, I decided this would prove the perfect time to cover a location where yet another logging town thrived in Montgomery County, back in the day.
Located within minutes of Mount Ida, Mauldin existed prior to the previously covered ghost town. In fact, today’s destination was disassembled and moved to Forester after a majority of the nearby virgin timber had been harvested from the large tract of land owned by the Caddo River Lumber Company.
It all began in 1906, when Billy Mauldin homesteaded 160 acres where the town bearing his name would eventually come to fruition.
The Texas native worked on cooperation with Thomas Whitaker, the founder of the Caddo River Lumber Company. A railroad line was stretch to the destination from Womble, currently referred to as Norman. Large-scale timber production began in 1922, and Mauldin immediately began to thrive. In fact, it touted a population of 896 during the 1930 census, compared to the county seat of Mount Ida with a population of 512.
As were many other “cut and move” logging towns during this era, Mauldin was self-supportive. Of course, those most capable of working in such a strenuous environment were at that age where folks rear children. In turn, the Mauldin grade school provided an education to 229 students in 1926.
Although it was not uncommon for students to quit school in the eighth grade, those who chose to continue their education could ride a bus to the high school at Mount Ida.
Only one church was located within the perimeters of the town. However, the structure hosted Baptist, Presbyterian and Methodist pastors on rotating Sundays.
The purposes of the company-owned commissary were twofold. Of course, its shelves were graced with hardware, clothing, meat, tobacco candy and other such items that the locals might need. But the building was also used as a social center, where folks could gather. The store also provided an ice delivery service.
The company- employed doctor likely remained busy. Of course, residents caught colds, flu and other ailments that we are accustomed to today, But other illnesses were also prevalent.
Hardly anybody had the luxury of indoor toilets. In turn, outhouses in close proximity of homes was a recipe for typhoid. According to http://www.encyclopediaofarkansas.net, many of the townspeople suffered from Pellagra, as a result of a lack of “fresh and healthy food.”
One might also consider the dangers of the logging industry. Fortunately, only one death is recorded as a result of a logging accident. But injuries were likely far more plentiful. And the Caddo River Lumber Company deducted the cost of medical expenses from the employees’ paychecks.
Although the town thrived for a short period, the nearby timber eventually diminished. And in turn, the town met its demise, as well. And within a matter of days, few remnants remained.
So what is one to see, if they visit Mauldin today? Well, it is far different from Forester in the sense that visitors will not see large pillars and foundations. In fact, there are but a few concrete piers on the north side of the road, where the mill once stood.
Two ponds are also situated on the hill. These small reservoirs were used to float logs. However, According to information I gathered via the internet, the ponds were utilized as a fish hatchery in 1940. However, they have no current use, other than providing native wildlife and fish with a reliable water source.
The town and housing units were located on the south side of the road. However, the property has since been turned into fields and was previously utilized to run cattle.
Presently owned by the U.S. Forest Service, the property is being managed as a means of preserving history and providing folks with an opportunity to get out and enjoy the wonderful outdoors.
In fact, the federal agency developed a walking trail through the fields in 2014. In the neighborhood of a half-mile of the designated path winds along level terrain through the field. However, another mile or so of the trail makes its way through a wooded area.
The path begins at the parking area, running alongside the dirt road. The trail crosses a couple of small wood bridges and splits, eventually looping back into itself.
This section of the route also runs alongside an occasional interpretive sign, sharing interesting information pertaining to native plant and animal life.
Although I have never seen whitetails going about their everyday rituals within sight of the trails, that’s no indication they fail to frequent the property. In fact, the environment would provide an ample food source.
The path meanders alongside a livestock pond, providing the perfect habitat for an array of native critters to thrive. In fact, I have spent a great deal of time at the pond’s edge during the spiring and summer months, with intentions of photographing various reptile and amphibian species that might depend upon the water source to survive.
I have noticed a number of birds flying to and fro throughout the property. And these ponds are a great location where one can watch as water-loving species can go about their everyday rituals.
The trail eventually makes a detour from the field into somewhat of a wooded area. I’ll admit that this section of property is comparable to the field in the sense that I’ve not seen a lot of
wildlife. However, I have noticed indications, on occasion, that deer and turkey are both using the area.
The path eventually enters the field again and runs alongside the remains of a cattle shoot surrounded by large oaks. The route then travels a short distance, where it makes a lefthand turn and parallels a fence back to the parking area, where the pleasant excursion began.
Although the trail is predominantly used by hiking enthusiasts, it also welcomes those who might enjoy a bike ride. I have ridden this path a couple of times throughout the years and will be the first to share that skilled riders might find the journey somewhat mundane.
But for those of us who are satisfied with nothing more than a pleasant ride in the midst of Mother Nature, this is a destination that might be considered.
Yep, Mauldin is a great location where one can savor fresh air and sunshine in the midst of a property with a rich and interesting history. And it is a destination where I have intentions of returning again in the near future.
To get to Mauldin from Hot Springs, travel 3 miles past Mount Ida on Highway 270 and take a left onto Mauldin Road. Remain straight on the dirt road for about six-tenths of a mile and the parking area will be on the left.