Bull Shoals State Park

Little Rock, AR

The Jon Boat was a flat bottom boat designed for use in shallow streams and lakes. This example from the White River of Arkansas was salvaged and put on display in Bull Shoals State Park. After several years on exhibition, curators noted advancing deterioration of the wood and iron artifact. Our conservators assessed the artifact and environmental conditions, tested the materials, and provided recommendations for stabilzation and long term preservation of this significant remnant of local history.