The Washington County Historical Society will honor three Fayetteville residents with its Distinguished Citizen Awards at the annual meeting on Sunday, October 4. Jan Lefler, Lindsley Smith, and Stephen A. Smith will each be recognized for their work preserving and promoting local history.
The ceremony starts at 1 p.m. at the Bailey Center at Mount Sequoyah, located at 150 North Skyline Drive. Alongside the awards presentation, members will elect officers and board members for the 2026-27 term. Tickets to attend the meeting are $25 per person.
Jan Lefler’s connection to the community runs deep—she spent 33 years as a registered nurse with the Veterans Administration health care system in Fayetteville before retiring in 2007. Her involvement with Washington County’s historical efforts includes completing the Washington County Master Heritage Program, which helps document and preserve local heritage and landmarks.
Lindsley Smith has long been a driving force in historic preservation efforts across the county. Her dedication to maintaining the character and history of Fayetteville’s older neighborhoods has made a lasting impact on how the city approaches development and conservation.
Stephen A. Smith has contributed extensively through research and advocacy to expand awareness of Washington County’s rich past. His efforts have helped ensure that stories and sites significant to the area’s cultural fabric receive proper recognition and care.
The Washington County Historical Society’s annual meeting and awards highlight ongoing local efforts to safeguard NWA’s diverse history—from the downtown square to outlying rural areas. For those who care about preserving the unique character of Fayetteville and its surroundings, this event serves as a reminder of the individuals who invest time and energy into keeping history alive.
History buffs and community members can attend the meeting to celebrate these honorees and learn more about the society’s projects. It’s also an opportunity for members to shape its leadership for the coming year. The Bailey Center location at Mount Sequoyah has hosted several cultural gatherings, making it a fitting site for such a local tradition.
Keeping Washington County’s history visible and relevant isn’t just about looking back; it informs decisions about growth, education, and community identity. Acknowledging contributors like Lefler and the Smiths reaffirms that preservation here involves a wide range of talents—from healthcare professionals to researchers and neighborhood advocates alike.
For anyone interested in local history or civic engagement, the Washington County Historical Society’s annual meeting provides a focused dive into ongoing preservation efforts and recognition within Fayetteville’s historic circles. It also offers a chance to meet others who care as much about the past as about the future of Northwest Arkansas.
Source: Fayetteville Flyer
