Chaffee Barbershop and Military Museum Announces Grand Reopening with New Interactive Exhibits

Fort Smith, AR — The Chaffee Barbershop and Military Museum is excited to announce its grand reopening on Tuesday, January 28th at 4 p.m., following a buildout designed to enhance the visitor experience. This historic landmark now features brand-new interactive exhibits that delve into the region's rich and diverse history. Along with brand new exhibits, we proudly announce a future Oral History Room dedicated to capturing the personal stories and memories of individuals connected to Chaffee, ensuring these invaluable stories are preserved for future generations.

From the beginnings in Center Valley, through pivotal contributions during World War II, to our compassionate support of refugee communities, and the vibrant growth of Chaffee Crossing today, the museum offers an engaging journey through time.

"The reopening of the Chaffee Barbershop Museum is not just a celebration of history and community, but also a tribute to over 84 years of Fort Chaffee's rich military legacy," said Cassie Burkard, Director of Historic District and Museums. "This museum goes beyond honoring Elvis's iconic haircut—it serves as a window into the stories of service, resilience, and transformation that have shaped our region and the nation. We are thrilled to mark this special occasion with our community and invite everyone to experience this living piece of history as we open a new chapter."
As part of the reopening celebrations, a special reading, prayer, and dedication of the World War II exhibit by Lay Leader Jack Goodman of the United Hebrew Congregation of Fort Smith. Open to the public, this meaningful ceremony will honor the legacy of the service members and civilians whose stories are shared in the exhibit.

This exciting project was made possible through funding provided by the Fort Chaffee Redevelopment Authority, whose dedication to preserving the history and fostering the growth of Chaffee Crossing has been instrumental in bringing the museum’s new vision to life.

The grand reopening event will feature a ribbon-cutting ceremony, guided tours, and sweet treats.

Event Details:
• Date: Tuesday, January 28th
• Time: 4-6 p.m.
• Location: Chaffee Barbershop and Military Museum, 7313 Terry St. #803 Fort Smith, AR 72916
• Admission: Free and open to the public

For further questions, contact Cassie Burkard.

About the Chaffee Barbershop and Military Museum
The Chaffee Barbershop and Military Museum is part of the Chaffee Crossing Historic District. The museum preserves and showcases the unique history of Fort Chaffee. Known as the site of Elvis Presley’s iconic Army haircut, the museum is a vital cultural destination that honors our military heritage and community resilience.

About Chaffee Crossing
Chaffee Crossing is Western Arkansas’ premiere economic development project located within the cities of Fort Smith and Barling. Under the direction and guidance of the Fort Chaffee Redevelopment Authority Public Trust, approximately 5,500 acres, formerly part of the Fort Chaffee Joint Maneuver Training Center, are being developed. As FCRA sells the property, the land is being returned to the tax rolls for the first time since 1941, jobs are being created, the regional economy is being stimulated, and desirable quality-of-life amenities materialize. Since its inception in 1995, the Chaffee Crossing economic development project has attracted $2.5 billion in industrial, commercial, residential, education, historical, and recreational development, boosting the western Arkansas regional economy.