In the picturesque Arkansas River Valley, lies Altus, Arkansas, a small town that boasts a rich history, unique culture, and an abundance of natural beauty. With its roots deeply embedded in the American spirit, Altus offers a peaceful lifestyle amidst the charm of the south. Today, we will explore the intriguing history, culture, and little-known facts about Altus.

morning view - The morning view from St. Mary's Mountain in Altus, Arkansas.
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The Origins of Altus

The history of Altus, Arkansas, is as rich and varied as the vineyards that dot its landscape, each with its own story of perseverance, innovation, and community spirit. Altus, taking its name from the Latin word meaning "high" or "deep," perfectly captures the essence of this town, located on a high plateau overlooking the Arkansas River. Established in the late 19th century, Altus quickly became a hub for the booming railroad industry, which played a important role in its early development and growth. The town's strategic location made it an important stop for travelers and goods moving through the region, laying the foundation for the vibrant community it is today.

in 1872, Jacob Post, a German immigrant from Baden-Baden, arrived in the United States. After an unsuccessful attempt at grape cultivation in Illinois, Post was drawn to Altus by the promise of its ideal grape-growing climate, as recommended by monks from Subiaco Abbey. He soon started planting vineyards and selling wine to the local coal miners, railroad workers, and immigrants, who appreciated the taste of home it brought to their meals.

The winemaking tradition in Altus continued with the establishment of Wiederkehr Winery by Johannes A. Wiederkehr, who built an underground cellar that now houses the Weinkeller Restaurant and is recognized on the National Register of Historic Places. The region's winemaking excellence was officially acknowledged in 1984 when 12,000 acres in the Altus area were designated as an American Viticultural Area. This recognition helped revive the Altus Grape Festival as an annual celebration of the town's viticultural heritage, with local wineries like Wiederkehr, Post, Mount Bethel, Chateau Aux Arc, and Sax continuing to produce fine wines to this day.

 

Dime harvest - Post Familie Vineyard in Altus, AR
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A Haven for Wine Lovers

Perhaps the most distinctive feature of Altus is its long-standing reputation as the heart of Arkansas's wine country. The town's fertile soil and favorable climate conditions make it an ideal location for vineyards and wineries, a tradition brought by Swiss and German immigrants in the late 1800s. Today, Altus is home to several family-owned wineries that have been operating for generations, producing a wide array of wines that reflect the area's rich heritage and expertise in viticulture. Wine enthusiasts and tourists are drawn to Altus not just for the wine but also for the experience of visiting the wineries, some of which are among the oldest in the southern United States.



St. Mary's - The incredible St. Mary's Catholic Church in Altus, AR.
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Historical Landmarks and Natural Beauty

Altus is not only celebrated for its wine production but also for its historical significance and natural attractions. The town is home to several landmarks listed on the National Register of Historic Places, including the Altus Heritage House Museum and St. Mary's Catholic Church, known for its stunning architecture and stained glass windows. Additionally, the surrounding area offers a wide variety of outdoor activities, from hiking and biking on scenic trails to exploring the beauty of the Ozark National Forest, making it a favorite for nature lovers and adventure seekers.




Interesting Altus Facts

Altus hosts an annual Grape Fest, a celebration of its winemaking tradition, attracting visitors from across the region for wine tastings, live music, and grape-stomping competitions.

Altus found itself in the spotlight in 2001 when Paris Hilton and Nicole Ritchie arrived to film "The Simple Life," one of the first reality shows for television, showcasing their comedic attempts to adapt to farm life and various jobs, adding a pop culture footnote to Altus's history.

Notable people from Altus

Notable individuals from Altus include Charles "Boss" Schmidt, a former Detroit Tigers catcher who played six seasons from 1906 to 1911 and helped the team win three consecutive American League pennants. After his baseball career, he returned to his roots in Altus, where he is remembered and honored with a granite stone at St. Mary’s Cemetery.

Janice Holt Giles, a celebrated autobiographer and author of historical fiction, and State Representative Florence McRaven, also hail from Altus, underscoring the town's contribution to a diverse range of fields from sports to literature and public service.

A Growing Community

As more people discover the charm and potential of Altus, the town is experiencing a renewed interest in real estate. With its affordable living, tight-knit community, and serene environment, Altus presents a compelling proposition for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether it's for retirement, a second home, or simply a change of pace, Altus offers a lifestyle that combines the best of rural tranquility with the convenience of modern amenities.

 

Altus, Arkansas, is a town steeped in history, culture, and natural beauty. Its unique blend of wine heritage, historical landmarks, and outdoor activities make it an attractive destination for anyone looking to experience the best of what Arkansas has to offer. Whether you're a wine enthusiast, history buff, or nature lover, Altus welcomes you to explore its hidden treasures and perhaps even call it home. As the town continues to grow and evolve, one thing remains certain: Altus's charm and spirit are timeless, making it a true gem in the heart of wine country.

Looking for a home in Altus, Arkansas? Here’s what’s currently on the market: Homes for sale in Altus.