I had a wonderful experience visiting the Faulkner County Museum and speaking with its director, Lynita Ware, who has led the museum since 2001. Located on the Historic Faulkner County Courthouse Grounds in downtown Conway, Arkansas, the museum is housed in the historic jail built in 1896. Founded in 1992 and opened to the public in 1997, it showcases a rich collection of artifacts from Faulkner County’s prehistory and history.
Lynita, a native of Greenbrier and an accomplished anthropologist, is dedicated to promoting and preserving the county’s history through various exhibits and outreach initiatives. She holds a BA in Anthropology from the University of Arkansas and an MA from the University of Alberta, along with a certificate in Museum Studies from George Washington University.
The museum features six major collections, including archival materials, local artwork, and historic objects, and offers research resources for those interested in family or county history. Visitors can access records from local funeral homes, city directories, yearbooks, and more. The dedicated staff and volunteers are also available to speak to civic and school groups, providing educational programs about Faulkner County’s past.
Currently funded through voluntary milage, private donations, and grants, the museum relies on a small team of staff and enthusiastic volunteers. The museum seeks additional financial assistance to sustain its efforts in renovating the building, preserving its collection, and reaching out community through exhibitions, events, and demonstrations.
The Museum is open to the public Monday through Thursday, 9 am to 4 pm. Please call 501-329-5918 for more information and directions.
Faulkner County Museum
P.O. Box 2442Conway, AR 72033-2422501-329-5918
fcm@conwaycorp.net