Historical Museum of Sequoyah County to Host Special Judge Parker Presentation

Friday, August 7, 2026 — History will come alive in Sallisaw later this month as the Historical Museum of Sequoyah County (HMOSC) welcomes visitors for a special living history presentation featuring one of the region's most well-known historical figures.

Visitors will have the opportunity to step back in time on Sunday, August 16, as the HMOSC presents a special program featuring portrayals of Judge Isaac C. Parker and his wife, Mary. The presentation begins at 2 p.m. and is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served following the program.

During the event, Floyd and Sue Robison will portray Judge Isaac C. Parker, often remembered as the "Hanging Judge," and his wife, Mary Parker, sharing stories about the couple's lives, family, and the history that shaped the Arkansas-Oklahoma frontier.

The Robisons have spent nearly 20 years researching and portraying the Parkers. Their work has taken them to Barnesville, where they explored Judge Parker's childhood and early education, and to St. Joseph, where they visited the site of his first law office and the home he shared with Mary.

Floyd Robison began his journey into historical reenactment while volunteering at Fort Smith National Historic Site, where he first portrayed Judge Parker. Sue later joined him as Mary Parker, and together they have presented numerous educational programs, including children's events, walking tours, school presentations, historical courtroom reenactments, and Judge Parker birthday celebrations.

Their dedication to preserving history has earned statewide recognition, including the City of Fort Smith's 2013 Grit Award for Tourism, as well as a nomination for Arkansas' Henry Award for promoting tourism and encouraging visitors to explore the region.

Today, the Robisons continue volunteering with the Fort Smith Historical Society and the Fort Smith Museum of History, where they share their passion for history with school groups, visitors, and community organizations.

Community members are invited to attend this unique opportunity to step back in time and learn about the life and legacy of Judge Isaac C. Parker and Mary Parker through an engaging first-person historical presentation.

The Historical Museum of Sequoyah County is located at 200 E. Creek Ave. in Sallisaw.

Lindsie Dyer, Staff Writer

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