Tontitown

Italian-American immigrants had a significant impact on the establishment and growth of Tontitown, Arkansas. In 1895, a group of Italian families facing political unrest and high taxes set sail for the United States and settled in the Tontitown area due to its favorable climate and cheap land. The first winter was harsh, but the immigrants survived and went on to farm the land, growing crops such as strawberries, apples, and grapes. The first Grape Festival was held in 1899 to celebrate the successful harvest, and this tradition continues to this day. The town was incorporated in 1909, with an italian, Father Bandini as the first mayor.