John F. Kennedy's Last Major Public Appearance Before His Assassination Took Place Here

I have lived in Arkansas all of my life and I have camped in Heber Springs more times than I can count but I don’t remember visiting the JFK Dam Overlook until I was in my twenties.

The overlook is a beautiful place to visit. We were there just last week and the field of daffodils were in full bloom.

The view of the Dam is majestic from the overlook. While standing on the overlook platform, it’s hard not to feel like you have stepped back in time.

The Greers Ferry Dam was the last thing President John F. Kennedy dedicated before his assisination on November 22, 1963.

In his last major appearance before his death, President John F. Kennedy stood on a flag-draped platform overlooking the just-completed Greers Ferry Dam and spoke of the prosperity the lake would bring to the region. -source

The Greers Ferry Dam was dedicated by President John F. Kennedy on October 3rd, 1963.

JFK Overlook and Memorial by Greers Ferry Dam

“The Corps constructed Greers Ferry dam, which is more than 1,700 feet long and towers 243 feet above the Little Red River. It cost $46.5 million to build and its initial purpose was flood control. Soon after, it served as a source of hydroelectric power. Over the years the dam created one of the most popular recreational destinations in the country and a world-class fishery.” -source