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Yell County

county

Yell County, Arkansas, located in the west-central part of the state, is characterized by its diverse landscape, which includes the Arkansas River Valley and portions of the Ouachita and Ozark National Forests. As of 2020, the population was 20,263, and the county has the unique distinction of having two county seats: Dardanelle and Danville. The county was formed in 1840 and named after Archibald Yell, a former governor and U.S. Representative. Agriculture, particularly poultry production and processing, along with the forest products and lumber industry, are key components of Yell County's economy. Tyson Foods has a significant presence in the county. The county also supports row crops and livestock production. Yell County offers a blend of historical significance and natural beauty. Its location along the Arkansas River made it a strategic point during the Civil War. Today, outdoor recreation is a draw, with access to the Ouachita National Forest, Mount Nebo State Park, and Blue Mountain Lake.

Yell County, Arkansas

Overview
Classification
County
Country
United States
County
Yell County
Geography
Region
Arkansas River Valley
Total Area
949 sq mi
Land Area
930 sq mi
Water Area
19 sq mi
Latitude
34.9983
Longitude
-93.4525
Notable Features
Arkansas River · Ouachita National Forest · Ozark National Forest · Mount Nebo
Neighboring Areas
Pope County · Conway County · Perry County · Garland County · Montgomery County · Scott County · Logan County
Demographics
Population (2020)
20,263
Est. Population (2024)
20,134
Median Age
39.9
Median Income
$58,870
Poverty Rate
13.3%
Owner-Occupied
67.5%
Racial & Ethnic Composition
In 2023, the racial makeup of the county was 73.8% White (Non-Hispanic), 13% Other (Hispanic), and 5.28% White (Hispanic).
Governance
Municipal Services
Public safety · Road maintenance · Record keeping · Elections
Economy
Unemployment Rate
4.2%
Economic Profile
Agriculture · Forest products · Lumber industry
Employment Sectors
Manufacturing · Health Care & Social Assistance · Retail Trade
Major Employers
Tyson Foods
Education
School Districts
Danville School District · Dardanelle School District · Two Rivers School District · Western Yell County School District
History
Founded
1840
Named After
Archibald Yell
Historical Significance
Strategic location during the Civil War; Early settlement by Cherokee and European settlers
Key Events
County formed from parts of Pope and Scott counties · Civil War skirmishes