The Arkansas Traveler

Oh Sally and Max, you better settle in because this tune's baggage may one day become your own. This tune was written by Colonel Sanford C. “Sandy” Faulkner, who was very active in Arkansas politics in the 1800s. He was also involved in banking and farming during the 19th century. Supposedly, Faulkner had gotten lost in the Ozarks during one of his many political campaigns. Looking for a place to stay overnight, Faulkner wandered by a small, log cabin where he was given lodging and hospitality. Faulkner explained that the settler was at first bad tempered and uncommunicative but became more welcoming when Faulkner proved able to complete playing the tune that the settler had been playing on the fiddle. Whether that's true, who knows. Several different sets of lyrics have been developed over the years, most of which portray this hillbilly character as lazy and senseless, as viewed by a more sophisticated outsider. One set of such demeaning lyrics were adopted as "official" in 1947 when this became the Arkansas State Song. The whole song, lyrics and all, was demoted to "State Historic Song" in the 1980s, so you're part of the new wave of Arkansans who don't purposely portray themselves as backwards and lazy. Though you can technically be anything you want, please reconsider any thoughts of being deliberately backwards and lazy. Also of note, "The Arkansas Traveler" is an honorific title given by the Governor of Arkansas to people who travel the world and bring honor to our state. Most people who earn respect don't win prizes, so don't get hung up on that. Instead, do the work of a true Arkansas Traveler by seeing the world with humility and always making people from other places feel welcome in your home.