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🎬 THE STORIES ARE COMING TO THE SCREEN! 🎬The Fort Smith Museum of History is proud to once again host a special PRE-EVENT for the 6th Annual Fort Smith International Film Festival! 🎥🍿
📅 Wednesday, November 4, 2026
⏰ 6:00 p.m.
📍 Fort Smith Museum of History
🎟️ Tickets: $10
This year's screening features TWO Arkansas documentaries — two very different stories, but both shining a light on fascinating people whose lives helped shape Arkansas history.
🎞️ Rock Van Winkle | Black Builder of Northwest Arkansas
Directed by Justin Stewart
Once enslaved, Aaron "Rock" Van Winkle rose to become one of Northwest Arkansas' earliest Black industrialists. Through newly uncovered records, this documentary brings to light the story of a man whose contributions were woven into the development of the region — but whose name largely disappeared from its history.
Director Justin Stewart, raised in Northwest Arkansas, is a filmmaker, actor and storyteller committed to creating space for Black voices and inspiring the next generation of artists of color.
🎞️ James Burton Blair: Nothing But the Truth, The Improbable Life of an Arkansas Giant
Directed by Larry D. Foley
For 90 years, Jim Blair lived a remarkable life. Businessman, benefactor, mentor and behind-the-scenes power broker, Blair crossed paths with poultry tycoons, politicians and even a U.S. president. He donated $5 million to the Fayetteville Public Library, which was later named in his honor.
The film comes from award-winning Arkansas documentarian Larry D. Foley, whose work has earned 8 Mid America Emmys and 25 Emmy nominations, along with numerous national honors.
🎥 Two films. Two Arkansas stories. One great evening of history and film.
Come join us at the Museum as we kick off the 6th Annual Fort Smith International Film Festival!
🎟️ Tickets are just $10!
📅 November 4
⏰ 6:00 p.m.
📍 Fort Smith Museum of History
We can't wait to see you! 🎬❤️
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Event venue
320 Rogers Ave, Fort Smith, AR, United States, Arkansas 72901
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