J. Dickson Black - Without the work of J. Dickson Black, much of this site would not be possible. Even though he is no longer with us, he is responsible for writing a lot of this site. He not only left us historical images of Bentonville and the area, but he also gave us a lot of the information to accompany the photos. Who was J. Dickson Black? He was born in Chicago in 1925 and served in World War II in CB 361 Tank Infantry under General George Patton. After the war, he moved to Seattle where he attend the Seattle School of Photography. In 1952, he moved to Bentonville and opened Black's Photography Studio which he operated until 1959, devoting the next five years to historical research and writing. During this time he also studied journalism at the University of Arkansas. He had his works published in newspapers regionally and across the United States. He also wrote many articles that were used in publications including Grit Magazine, National Enquirer, and Western Magazine. In the 1970's, he wrote a book, "History of Benton County" which for all practical purposes became the definitive history source for this area. He also published several small books about local history. Mr. Black has also run a tree service, a music store, and later in life a furniture refinishing shop. He also started what is now the Bentonville Farmer's Market which continues to be a highlight of summer for those living in the area. Most Saturdays you could find Mr. Black selling his books and pieces of local history on the Bentonville Square. He always had time to sit and visit with people about his favorite topic. Mr. Black died in 2004 and is buried in the National Cemetery in Fayetteville, Arkansas.  (Photo courtesy of J. Dickson Black/McCrory collection)