Carolan, Arkansas
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The community of Carolan, Arkansas is found five miles to the southwest of Booneville, Arkansas on State Highway 23. It is named for William P. Carolan, early farmer and merchant in the area. He was born on April 16, 1800. He was married to Hannah A. Carolan, born on April 5, 1807. Both died in the community of Carolan on April 16, 1875 and April 9, 1877, respectively. They are buried in the Carolan Community cemetery. An amusing inscription on William Carolan's tombstone describes him as "Baptist and Democrat".
[edit] The Founding Family and First Business
William P. Carolan's son, Sam T. Carolan, opened the first general store in the community in 1878, three years after his father's death. Sam also opened a cotton gin and blacksmith shop. He was also the postmaster.
In 1918, Sam's son, W.E. "Emmett" Carolan took over the business with help of his older son, W.W. "Bill." They built the "new" store that included gas pumps and modern conveniences. This building stands today. In 1946, the family business went to R.L. "Bob" Carolan, Bill's younger brother. The Carolan General Store sold groceries, clothing, farm and feed supplies, drugs, sporting goods and hardware. The store closed in 1975 with the retirement of Bob Carolan.
In its heyday, Carolan had a school, and two churches, Baptist and Methodist.
Descendents of William and Hannah Carolan still live in the area.
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