I have to admit, my anxiety went up when you started crossing the swinging bridge! You are a brave soul! Our country's history is interesting and should be remembered and appreciated just as you have done with this piece. I've never heard of this community, and thank you for including Zink in your video library.
@TravelwithaWiseguy Diversity, or as they say - variety is the spice of life. As one who travels the state in my career, I enjoy your perspective of our state and appreciate when you share the areas outside of Kansas you travel to as well. Always good to hear about new places, and I appreciate the level of respect given when approaching your video's content. Thank you.
I still live 2 miles outside of Zinc. My great grandfather originally home steaded the area. I grew up there never did have anything to do with the Klan. Knew who they were, just told to not associate with Toms kids that we didn't agree with what they stood for. Many people in Zinc didn't.
I enjoy reading the comments that people write on here as much as watching the video. Your channel has become my favorite on youtube, and I always look forward to seeing them, Thank you for sharing your road trips
This was a a great experience of reality of our towns which make up our country s history. They're display beauty but like a rose also a thorny side. Swinging bridge was a experience just watching you gracefully attacking the experience of it. Thanks ,John for sharing this story & area's nature.😊
I'm 30 miles north of Zinc in Branson. Anyone who's lived in this area can tell you stories about The Klan & Thomas Robb in that area. Maybe I missed you saying it, but Thomas Robb died in April of this year. Robb's son owns a store - Dixie outfitters in Branson. Look up David Tate and the tragic killing of MO state Highway Patrol Trooper Jimmie E. Linegar in 1985. David Tate was the biggest manhunt in the history of SW MO. It's a long sad history about the Klan in this area.
I had no idea he had died. In fact I just looked him up and it doesn’t say that on his Wikipedia page or anywhere else. Interesting. Thank you for the info!
Those folks holed up near Pontiac Arkansas, they left their compound with food on the table and clothes on the line. Quite the story. David Tate was captured in Forsyth Missouri after stealing some potato chips from a picnickers car in the city park
@@TravelwithaWiseguyI have also checked the web for death info on Robb. There's speculation that he passed in April of last year, but no confirmation was given by his family or the church. My thoughts are they didn't want the town to be overrun with media, and worried about his funeral, etc.
@@stevehilliard1495 - Yes, David Tate was captured sitting on the couthouse steps in Forsyth. I remember the manhunt well, state troopers with road blocks and shotguns stopping and searching every vehicle. David Tate now serving a life prison term in PCC, Potosi Mo.
For many years, there was a sign on Highway 65 saying this 2 miles of highway is maintained by the KKK. I always thought it strange and now I know why. Another great video Wiseguy.
There used to be a stretch on I-55 just south of St. Louis that said the same thing. very controversial. If I remember correctly they could not make them take it down, but I believe they officially named that stretch the Rosa Parks Memorial Hwy. with signage and everything. So the klan members were out there picking up trash on the Rosa Parks Hwy. ❤😂
I love the rural folks in Arkansas, Southern part of Missouri. They'll easily go out of their way to help anyone, regardless of their skin color. Almost all of them just want to be left alone. If Zinc is the most racist town in America, then easily St. Louis, Chicago, Memphis, Detroit, New York, Philadelphia,,,,, are the most racist cities in the US.
I won't agree or disagree on this statement outside of my statements below. One, people do not always know how their actions contribute or infer systemic racism. Two, I have been to those places and other places in the mid west and south. In general, 80-90% of people you find are kind and hospitable. It's the loud minorities as in the bigots that rock the boats.
Another great video !! I really didn't have any preconceived thoughts when I saw the title due to the character and quality of videos that you have produced. You always bring out the best and most informative qualities of each place that you visit. You have actually done that little town a great service in bringing their true nature to light, and dispelling the stigma that follows their reputation. That bridge is what we normally called a roundtoit project ....We'll fix it when we get around to it. I pray for a day when we can realize there aren't really different races of people, we are all of the human race. There are different skin shades and colors, different cultures, but we all have a spirit, a soul, a mind. Once the skin suit is removed, we are all more similar than we realize.
When I was raised in the military overseas 72-96 there were no races. We were all people. The only time I remember anybody being treated different was when we had a small brother and sister in our school. They had to have bottom lockers etc. Just the way it was when I was growing up.
Having grown up in extreme SE Missouri in the 50s, I remember talk of KKK activities even then. We had relatives near Harrison, not far from Zinc, and there was always talk of the group's activities...or suspected activities. Your video is awesome, as usual. I think your videos would be great to show in the History classes in the states you visit! You touch on things history books leave out! We are lucky that the KKK doesnt practice like they did in the past, when they received their dubious moniker! Thank you!
I will add something else. A real estate agent cannot discriminate. If Tom Robb wanted to buy property in downtown Chicago or Compton CA, start a Church there, and he had the money to do so, they would have to sell it to him. Would that make those towns the most racist? One man with his belief doesn't make a whole town one way or another. Everyone has a right to their beliefs. Right or wrong. He will answer to his maker for them just as everyone else.
Interesting video about a tricky subject. I grew up hearing about KKK and of course the rumors and fear surrounding them. I must say I haven't studied them so I have no factual information. But the town seems like a small burg in any hill/mountain terrain of the country. I'd really like to cross a swinging bridge, need to add that to my bucket list. Safe travels dear, GOD bless
Thank you very much! Tricky is a great way to describe this. I’m fairly naive about the subject as well. That’s my 3rd swinging bridge, they are very unique!
I would venture a guess that you are safer and more welcome in Zinc than say East St. Louis Mo., or parts of Memphis Arkansas. Prejudice is a tricky thing. Always enjoy your videos but you didn’t seem at ease this time. Also no dog in Zinc😂? Looking forward to next week. On second viewing I did see a dog 😂
Thank you! Yes it was a strange feeling visiting and I would probably have the same uneasiness in East St Louis. The man I spoke with had a couple dogs and one of them was totally blind! But it didn’t seem appropriate at the end of this video. Always appreciate your support!
I held my breath while you were walking across that rickety old bridge! Very interesting video. All your videos are remarkable, and the details you give on each town are fascinating.
Beautiful ole church, I remember going to old wooden churches like that here in South Carolina..nice sandy area round the bridge, I really like it, pretty place. Thanks for the history and sharing. Hey from Aynor South Carolina
Maybe someone will do alittle maintenance on the bridge now that you have shown the world that it needs fixed. Over in southwest Missouri there was a old cave where the kkk meant years ago . Very spooky on Halloween night. 😮
I will say to show a bit of empathy for the town, I can't blame the entire town. I don't know how much you know about the history of the Phelps clan at the Westboro Baptist Church. You don't hear about them so much anymore but they were/are an awful group of people known for their anti-gay bigotry and protesting at military funerals. Blaming the whole town of Zinc for that church is like blaming Topeka (where the Phelps clan was/is based) for the Westboro Baptist Church.
The aerial view of the town is beautiful. Northern Arkansas and Southern Missouri is a spectacular area for driving a sports car or motorcycle because of the winding roads and scenery. As for the KKK, 99% of the people in Zinc could be wonderful people and it only takes that one percent to give a bad reputation. I know the KKK has been around for a long time. While stationed at Bitburg Air Base in West Germany 1978-1981 I recall that the KKK had a rally at the US air base Spangdahlem which was twelve miles from Bitburg. Hard to believe that the USAF would allow it, but it was free speech I guess and that is one our mainstays and reasons that we have a military. This is the same time in history that every Airman attended the Air Force equal opportunity classes annually as a mandatory requirement. That being said, I doubt that it would happen in 2023 at a US air base.
I was raised in ZINC ARKANSAS lived there most of my life, as for kkk never had or heard of any problems with kkk so many people say what they seem to know about zink but until you have lived there I promise you,,,,,you don't know the TRUTH!!!!!! My mom & dad raised all of us kids there I am the baby out of 16 kids ,,,,,, there are always 2 sudes to every story believe me 👌🌻🌻💜💖💙❤ I AM FROM ZINC, ARKANSAS now live in HARRISON, ARKANSAS❤❤❤❤
There is not much of a town left. I went on a float trip on the Buffalo River, which is near there. One of my favorite areas of Arkansas. I like your Blue Swallow Motel T-Shirt, I was just watching your Route 66 New Mexico video.
Many years ago, in the 1970s and early 1980s, I lived in Nederland, Texas. This is not far from Vidor, Texas. At that time, a KKK representative from Vidor would be interviewed on TV occasionally. Vidor has the reputation of being a very racist town and that was true when I lived near it. I am not sure if this is still true, but according to Wikepedia, the town is still 97% white. At least when I lived near Vidor, it was just as bad or worse than Zinc.
My mom and dad lived in Diamond City AK. For a short time and dad took us to Zinc . This was early ‘80s because he liked to wander . On our family vacations he would stop at every historical marker we saw. He wanted us to see Zinc to show us how good our lives were compared to other places. Zinc was a real eye opener for me because it looked to be a very economically depressed area. I came away counting my blessings. Also, coming from a rural area of Illinois myself , Zinc was past rural, I remember seeing animal pelts hanging from fences.
I’m surprised you’re not more accustomed to the animal pelts thing. I’m in southern missouri and that’s a pretty common thing to see from hunters. Hell I’ve even laid some pelts over my fence a time or two from various animals I kill.
When I clicked on the title that included the word Arkansas, I thought that you were pretty brave to be visiting anywhere in a flyover state. You could hardly call Zinc a town because there really is not much of a town to be seen. I looked up the church address on Google Maps at 6640 Lead Hill Road as you had so kindly included it in the clip. Driving two miles to arrive at a private property which to me, in Google Maps, looks pretty creepy. Hopefully any religious teachings there don't include hateful prejudice speech. Also, you're a pretty nice big boy to have dared crossing that rickety bridge. I loved watching you tread lightly... All the best. Love your videos as you continue to explore.
As much zinc as is still used today (the US penny is zinc) I suspect the mine must have played out. Other wise they would still be mining there. History is history, warts and all, I had never hear of Zinc, but was glad you got to test you mettle on that bridge. That the path on the far end was well worn says it still gets used. It was a joy to see all the trikes and playground toys on the basketball court.
Law enforcement in surrounding counties were members or probably still active members in the KKK. I lived in Harrison for over a year and found this out. Nighthawk chapter. That's what they go by. A Boone County Deputy in 1992 was a active member. One day he had to act as Jailer cuz the real Jailer went on vacation and that deputy ended up raping a methamphetamine addict female in Boone County Jail. That douchebag deputy made that female prisoner pregnant. The baby's DNA spoke the truth. That p. O. S. Deputy got felony probation. Did not even go to the prison Plantation Farms. I wish I can remember his name. His wife work for Mass merchandiser and she got me fired because I'm just a city boy from Miami Florida. She found this out because she had her crooked cop husband running background check on me. But karma got him a rape charge. Call up Boone County Sheriff's Department in Harrison Arkansas and question them about that truth.
Goddamn that’s wild! Most of these racists are battling something deeper that’s why they have so much hate for others..it’s a reflection of what they’re going through internally. To rape someone is an abomination. I’m sure he’s done worse things
My immediate response to the title is No way, (I live in NW Tennessee).I know some prejudice individuals, + "the KKK originated/originated and organized in Pulaski, Tennessee". I love Arkansas, always felt they don't seem quite as preoppucied with "Judgemental", generally speaking. There are chapters throughout the South, not like in the 1920's - 50's when it peaked, and there were chapters in all states, inc: Denvet, Omaha, KC, etc. Mississippi and Louisiana actually have held some active chapters. It is truly tragic to understand that Prejudice is Learned, a fear based belief associated with our Lower Mind Thoughts. Perspectives, everyone has a choice, once they are Conscious of the facts.
I did a radio show for the Knight's Party for nine years, and it was NOT a racist program. I am also not in the Klan, and never have been, before anyone starts with potentially libelous comments. These people just want to be left alone. I believe they also did Thanksgiving dinners for poor people, including minorities. What they don't like, are the Illegals and swarthy string-pullers. If you are Black and broken down on the side of the road, your chances of being helped are pretty good. You don't have to fear for your life or safety, like you do in LA, NYC or Shitcago.
That....Was.........interesting!😮 Never heard of the town. A bit creepy, was nervous for you, just watching it! Sad to have that kind of mark on it! Prob wont put this one on my bucket list though!😔
The reason I made the video was because every video I saw about the town was negative. Notice I didn’t say anything negative about the town and actually talked about it’s history.
I thought it would be pretty much like other small town episodes you have covered. Most folks John, take others as they find them, irrespective of race, colour or creed. If they are good to you, be good to them. There are exceptions which always make the news but in general, it's just something for the activists to shout about. I was interested in it being an old mining town as my village is too. Good on you for having a look and thank you for making the video. Very interesting.
I was watching a doc on the KKK and I came across this city while doing research, I live in France but the small towns and your video concept are fascinating. Keep on going !
I tell you what, almost every church I have ever seen they all invite you in. The church is out in the open, anybody can come in whether you believe or not. They enjoy seeing new people. That church does not look real inviting.
No way is that small town the most racist place in America . Didn't see anyone on the streets making openly racist Tik Toks , or women screaming and shouting in the food joints , so it can't be .
Forgotten little old mining town that in its waning years unfortunately had a representation of hatred move in & attempt to spoil the quaint beauty of the little town of Zinc w/ it's ideology. Neat video, there were still some neat buildings which seemed mostly intact.
I grew up in San Leandro CA, next to Oakland. Life magazine ran a story in the early 70s saying that San Leandro was the most racist town in the country. The first black family moved into my neighborhood in 1979, so, yeah... As always...
With the history of the KKK, I would have to, in the words of Ronald Reagan, have to say "Trust but verify" anything said by anyone in Zinc or around Zinc. Nancy Newman said the town was not associated with the KKK to the north of Zinc. Again trust but verify.
So, we're just going to ignore Coeurd'Alene Idaho? I live in Arkansas, and my town of about 600 has zero racists that I know of. Batesville, still sporting a CSA monument, is also really short on racists. Even the folks that fly the Stars and Bars don't profess to hate anyone, and you can see it at their cookouts. Fully integrated. Southern Racism is a myth anymore.
READ about Georgia Huffman and Ed Badley story of love gone wrong to give the feel of how this town was back then and read abt Ella Barham times were hard and the drinking was getting out of hand the men were treated terrible in the zinc mines and many many died young they tried to tame the town with religion which im sure helped some but they didnt many pleasures in those times.
The reality. It is hard to live in this area. Like anywhere else things cost a lot. Here it is tricky to make money. Mostly we get by. We like our family and friends. If you are different, well, family is family and friends are to hard to come by to be picky. I am open for more friends. We eat at 6,12,5. We never turn folks away. I suppose you know we believe in God and Jesus. We are pro-USA. We don’t smoke or drink. We live, if you can’t say nothing nice-keep quite.
I did think it would be sad and it was. I had not heard the news about the most racist town but it doesn't surprise me it was in that area. I am sure you were careful but kind of scary.
Just answering the question at the end of the video, to be honest when I hear "most racist town" I picture a place with big plantation homes with southern gentlemen on the front porch yearning for the days when they can capture people again and make them work. Since they can't anymore, they turn to the KKK to focus their rage, something like that. This town just looked like a town that's on its last legs. It looked pathetic really, just as pathetic as the beliefs at least some in the town hold.
Your thought of what the town might look like is interesting. It did feel like a dying town walking around. At least the lady at the end made sure to disavow the church. But yeah I got the same feeling. Appreciate your thoughts!
@@TravelwithaWiseguy I was glad to see the note, but let's face it, if the church didn't have a congregation, it couldn't survive. Some people either from there or around there are attending
I found out about this town because of a guy making a video about nearby Harrison, which is quite larger. I’m pretty naive about all this, but I do wonder how many people are members of the church. I did some research afterwards and at least the national participation in the KKK seems to be declining significantly.
I can't help but to think it's blasphemous to call a building, that is essentially a racist headquarters, a church. Galatians 3:28 There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.
Drive into south Central LA. See how the Diversity, equality and inclusion works out for you being white. Then you will realize the difference in places son.
I always thought it was Harrison Arkansas. I used to drive thru it on my way to my uncles farm & always had white power billboards all over the place & everybody was obese
As the old saying goes.... bad apples in a barrell ecetra... Yada yada. Nothing wrong with these places in general. Just wrong thinking people in the background setting is all. The area is not a kkk stronghold of a populus of people just a very few. The area was in fact Northern Sympathizers and pacifiist in the Civil War. Look over the short lived group of homeguard men called the Arkansas Peace Society. The people would hide and had secret meetings as they tried to secretly organize the protection of their families and loved ones from both Southern marauders, Union and Confederate guerillas bush whackers and Jayhawkers in that time. My GGrandfather's older brothers were living the county over and involved in this movement. They weren't necessarily for any "side", but sympathized with the Union the most. They formed up and trained their own militias who would join up with Phelps, Arkansas 2nd Union Calvary. In Searcy County, next door, one of the largest "breadbaskets" of the time, Richland Valley Arkansas, was a full over pillaging destination for both sides. Boone county, where Zinc is, was not even a county, pre civil war, but a part of Carrol County which is now the Eureka Springs and surrounding area. Many a civilian was killed by all the marauding terrorists I had listed previously. Confederate Governor Rector at Little Rock would even sent men formerly on death row up to terrorize that area because there was a strong Union sentiment. Many of those counties had fewer than a hundred slaves per county as most living there outside of the better valley lands were subsistence farmers. Poor. My own family's mentality was they came fromTennesee, had bought their land from the government in the 1840-50's they felt fair and squarely. They never saw any government agency come over the hill to help them build a farm out of this sheer wilderness. ( This area had only opened up in 1834) so why should they answer a government's call from any side now, they had no slaves to fight for? Even though they favored the Union in a Confederate state. That was their outlook and many other's here. It really has not been that long ago truth be realized.
LOL!! Thomas Robb DID NOT DIE ayear ago. This is 2024 and I saw him in Harrison just days ago as another person commented above. So somebody is confused, Also one of Thomas's sons is an attorney in Harrison.
i spent my summers in harroson, near lead hill. i did not know about them till i grew up. i know they have a on air station but keep to them selves. no one thinks about them they are fading away
A lot could be said about both sides of this. I wouldn't recommend a white guy to go into some parts of Chicago. But I do have to say that town didn't have the homey feeling that most of the towns you go to have, even some of the ghost towns.
Hardly any information or insight imparted here. You drove around the town, and walked across one rickety bridge, we saw one shirtless man, walking away from you, and heard you talking to exactly one person in the town. Yes, if we wanted to learn more about the town of Zinc, we could watch a bunch of TH-cam videos about it. Or you could have provided it. In terms of the history or current events of the town, he hardly summarized anything.
Serious questions for you: 1) what buildings or historical sites did I not show? 2) what history about the town did I not talk about? 3) can you send a link to a video that gives more historical info about Zinc? I have watched other videos about Zinc. I’m fairly certain this is the least biased one about the town online. I’m happy to be proved wrong.
The man seems cordial enough. How would you like it if you lived somewhere infamous or embarrassing and have people show up just to ask the same questions all the time? I never heard of Zinc and I am more than willing to look further at other videos or Wikipedia etc.
I have to admit, my anxiety went up when you started crossing the swinging bridge! You are a brave soul! Our country's history is interesting and should be remembered and appreciated just as you have done with this piece. I've never heard of this community, and thank you for including Zink in your video library.
The man I spoke with was actually talking about trying to fix the bridge haha! Thank you for watching and for commenting! Always appreciated!
@TravelwithaWiseguy Diversity, or as they say - variety is the spice of life. As one who travels the state in my career, I enjoy your perspective of our state and appreciate when you share the areas outside of Kansas you travel to as well. Always good to hear about new places, and I appreciate the level of respect given when approaching your video's content. Thank you.
That’s very kind of you! 😊
What a weenie!
I still live 2 miles outside of Zinc. My great grandfather originally home steaded the area. I grew up there never did have anything to do with the Klan. Knew who they were, just told to not associate with Toms kids that we didn't agree with what they stood for. Many people in Zinc didn't.
I enjoy reading the comments that people write on here as much as watching the video. Your channel has become my favorite on youtube, and I always look forward to seeing them, Thank you for sharing your road trips
Thank you very much! There are a lot of interesting people who seem to be watching and many of them make great comments!
This was a a great experience of reality of our towns which make up our country s history. They're display beauty but like a rose also a thorny side. Swinging bridge was a experience just watching you gracefully attacking the experience of it. Thanks ,John for sharing this story & area's nature.😊
Very eloquently said! Thank you! I didn’t feel very graceful on the bridge haha.
When the swinging bridge broke in Heber Springs it made it on the German news and my mother called me and told me about it.
Never knew about the KKK in Zinc so never expected to hear about it.
I'm 30 miles north of Zinc in Branson. Anyone who's lived in this area can tell you stories about The Klan & Thomas Robb in that area. Maybe I missed you saying it, but Thomas Robb died in April of this year. Robb's son owns a store - Dixie outfitters in Branson. Look up David Tate and the tragic killing of MO state Highway Patrol Trooper Jimmie E. Linegar in 1985. David Tate was the biggest manhunt in the history of SW MO. It's a long sad history about the Klan in this area.
I had no idea he had died. In fact I just looked him up and it doesn’t say that on his Wikipedia page or anywhere else. Interesting. Thank you for the info!
Those folks holed up near Pontiac Arkansas, they left their compound with food on the table and clothes on the line. Quite the story. David Tate was captured in Forsyth Missouri after stealing some potato chips from a picnickers car in the city park
@@TravelwithaWiseguyI have also checked the web for death info on Robb. There's speculation that he passed in April of last year, but no confirmation was given by his family or the church. My thoughts are they didn't want the town to be overrun with media, and worried about his funeral, etc.
@@stevehilliard1495 - Yes, David Tate was captured sitting on the couthouse steps in Forsyth. I remember the manhunt well, state troopers with road blocks and shotguns stopping and searching every vehicle. David Tate now serving a life prison term in PCC, Potosi Mo.
I heard that him dying was a complete rumor and untrue
For many years, there was a sign on Highway 65 saying this 2 miles of highway is maintained by the KKK. I always thought it strange and now I know why. Another great video Wiseguy.
Thanks Randy!
There used to be a stretch on I-55 just south of St. Louis that said the same thing. very controversial. If I remember correctly they could not make them take it down, but I believe they officially named that stretch the Rosa Parks Memorial Hwy. with signage and everything. So the klan members were out there picking up trash on the Rosa Parks Hwy. ❤😂
They had a billboard for a while as well, saying it's okay to be White, and advertising their media channels.
They probably kept it clean as an organization.
I love the rural folks in Arkansas, Southern part of Missouri. They'll easily go out of their way to help anyone, regardless of their skin color. Almost all of them just want to be left alone. If Zinc is the most racist town in America, then easily St. Louis, Chicago, Memphis, Detroit, New York, Philadelphia,,,,, are the most racist cities in the US.
You’re just a racist stop that hate ..
wrong!
Username checks out.
I won't agree or disagree on this statement outside of my statements below. One, people do not always know how their actions contribute or infer systemic racism. Two, I have been to those places and other places in the mid west and south. In general, 80-90% of people you find are kind and hospitable. It's the loud minorities as in the bigots that rock the boats.
Stop lying 🤥. The towns are what people say they are.
Another great video !! I really didn't have any preconceived thoughts when I saw the title due to the character and quality of videos that you have produced. You always bring out the best and most informative qualities of each place that you visit. You have actually done that little town a great service in bringing their true nature to light, and dispelling the stigma that follows their reputation.
That bridge is what we normally called a roundtoit project ....We'll fix it when we get around to it.
I pray for a day when we can realize there aren't really different races of people, we are all of the human race. There are different skin shades and colors, different cultures, but we all have a spirit, a soul, a mind. Once the skin suit is removed, we are all more similar than we realize.
Thank you for the kind message! Much appreciated! Thanks for the bridge info too!
❤
When I was raised in the military overseas 72-96 there were no races. We were all people. The only time I remember anybody being treated different was when we had a small brother and sister in our school. They had to have bottom lockers etc. Just the way it was when I was growing up.
Having grown up in extreme SE Missouri in the 50s, I remember talk of KKK activities even then. We had relatives near Harrison, not far from Zinc, and there was always talk of the group's activities...or suspected activities.
Your video is awesome, as usual. I think your videos would be great to show in the History classes in the states you visit! You touch on things history books leave out!
We are lucky that the KKK doesnt practice like they did in the past, when they received their dubious moniker!
Thank you!
Thank you very much! Very nice of you to say!
I am
Nancy Newman from Zinc Arkansas. Thank u so much!
I will add something else. A real estate agent cannot discriminate. If Tom Robb wanted to buy property in downtown Chicago or Compton CA, start a Church there, and he had the money to do so, they would have to sell it to him. Would that make those towns the most racist? One man with his belief doesn't make a whole town one way or another. Everyone has a right to their beliefs. Right or wrong. He will answer to his maker for them just as everyone else.
Yep that’s why I said I felt bad for those who live in town as in “wrong place, wrong time”
100%
A real estate agent cannot discriminate but the seller himself surely can.
@@SuperLooneyrooneyexactly!
Great video brother! I have a friend from Zinc surprisingly that still lives there to this day!
Thank you! Interesting town that’s for sure!
Interesting video about a tricky subject. I grew up hearing about KKK and of course the rumors and fear surrounding them. I must say I haven't studied them so I have no factual information. But the town seems like a small burg in any hill/mountain terrain of the country. I'd really like to cross a swinging bridge, need to add that to my bucket list. Safe travels dear, GOD bless
Thank you very much! Tricky is a great way to describe this. I’m fairly naive about the subject as well. That’s my 3rd swinging bridge, they are very unique!
@TravelwithnostalgicaWiseguy
I would venture a guess that you are safer and more welcome in Zinc than say East St. Louis Mo., or parts of Memphis Arkansas. Prejudice is a tricky thing. Always enjoy your videos but you didn’t seem at ease this time. Also no dog in Zinc😂? Looking forward to next week. On second viewing I did see a dog 😂
Thank you! Yes it was a strange feeling visiting and I would probably have the same uneasiness in East St Louis. The man I spoke with had a couple dogs and one of them was totally blind! But it didn’t seem appropriate at the end of this video. Always appreciate your support!
Thanks for the video. I enjoy the actual history of the town. As you said most residents wrong place wrong time. Hard video to make I'm sure.
Domestic violence, child abuse, and drugs are at a low rate in towns like that!
@@Nick-su5liit should be there are only 90 people living there lol
@@Nick-su5li🤡
I held my breath while you were walking across that rickety old bridge! Very interesting video. All your videos are remarkable, and the details you give on each town are fascinating.
Thank you so much! I was a little nervous too 😂😂
Beautiful ole church, I remember going to old wooden churches like that here in South Carolina..nice sandy area round the bridge, I really like it, pretty place. Thanks for the history and sharing. Hey from Aynor South Carolina
Thank you! The church looked like it was on its last legs. Thanks for watching and commenting!
Great video brother! At 2:37 did that guy say welcome to Zinc, AR?
Basically!
@@TravelwithaWiseguy Do u know Manhattan, KS?
Yes I do - been there many times!
Maybe someone will do alittle maintenance on the bridge now that you have shown the world that it needs fixed. Over in southwest Missouri there was a old cave where the kkk meant years ago . Very spooky on Halloween night. 😮
The man I spoke with said they are trying to work on it! Oh I can imagine that would be very spooky!
@@TravelwithaWiseguy It was, a bunch of us kids went out there on Halloween night, back in the 70s. Very Erie vibe out there.
Very nice video. Yes, you are brave to even go out on that shaky bridge. This video may get you some "odd" responses. Be good, be safe !!
Haha yes I expect that to be the case. Definitely not the type of video I’ll do very often but it is what it is as they say! Thank you!
Thomas robb is not dead because he's my grandpa i saw him yeasterday
Lmao yeah right
I will say to show a bit of empathy for the town, I can't blame the entire town. I don't know how much you know about the history of the Phelps clan at the Westboro Baptist Church. You don't hear about them so much anymore but they were/are an awful group of people known for their anti-gay bigotry and protesting at military funerals. Blaming the whole town of Zinc for that church is like blaming Topeka (where the Phelps clan was/is based) for the Westboro Baptist Church.
Yes I’m pretty familiar with the Westboro church situation. And I agree!
The aerial view of the town is beautiful. Northern Arkansas and Southern Missouri is a spectacular area for driving a sports car or motorcycle because of the winding roads and scenery. As for the KKK, 99% of the people in Zinc could be wonderful people and it only takes that one percent to give a bad reputation. I know the KKK has been around for a long time. While stationed at Bitburg Air Base in West Germany 1978-1981 I recall that the KKK had a rally at the US air base Spangdahlem which was twelve miles from Bitburg. Hard to believe that the USAF would allow it, but it was free speech I guess and that is one our mainstays and reasons that we have a military. This is the same time in history that every Airman attended the Air Force equal opportunity classes annually as a mandatory requirement. That being said, I doubt that it would happen in 2023 at a US air base.
I was raised in ZINC ARKANSAS lived there most of my life, as for kkk never had or heard of any problems with kkk so many people say what they seem to know about zink but until you have lived there I promise you,,,,,you don't know the TRUTH!!!!!! My mom & dad raised all of us kids there I am the baby out of 16 kids ,,,,,, there are always 2 sudes to every story believe me 👌🌻🌻💜💖💙❤ I AM FROM ZINC, ARKANSAS now live in HARRISON, ARKANSAS❤❤❤❤
That’s prob because you’re white lol
Omg!!! You literally moved from one racist town too another🤔😆
Write a whole book and ain’t say nothing .. just wanted people to know your a racist ..now go eat a dog biscuit
@@shashoniemusgrove151is Harrison really bad on black people?
“There are 2 side to every story” not in this case Donna. Disgusting
There is not much of a town left. I went on a float trip on the Buffalo River, which is near there. One of my favorite areas of Arkansas. I like your Blue Swallow Motel T-Shirt, I was just watching your Route 66 New Mexico video.
Thank you! The Blue Swallow was a great classic hotel! I bet that float trip was a lot of fun!
I would say that it was good that you had a bald head driving in that area. LOL! 🤣
Many years ago, in the 1970s and early 1980s, I lived in Nederland, Texas. This is not far from Vidor, Texas. At that time, a KKK representative from Vidor would be interviewed on TV occasionally. Vidor has the reputation of being a very racist town and that was true when I lived near it. I am not sure if this is still true, but according to Wikepedia, the town is still 97% white. At least when I lived near Vidor, it was just as bad or worse than Zinc.
Thank you for the info!
I live in northeast Texas and about 30 years ago on a back road a black man was dragged to his death down around that vider, Silsbee area
@@lyleswavel320 I remember that. At least some of the perpetrators were executed.
I’m a curios cat myself, thanks for showing us the town!
Thank you!!
Curiosity is a good thing to understand things we can not understand🌻🐝
Very good chapter, thanks for having me along
Thank you very much!
My mom and dad lived in Diamond City AK. For a short time and dad took us to Zinc . This was early ‘80s because he liked to wander . On our family vacations he would stop at every historical marker we saw. He wanted us to see Zinc to show us how good our lives were compared to other places. Zinc was a real eye opener for me because it looked to be a very economically depressed area. I came away counting my blessings. Also, coming from a rural area of Illinois myself , Zinc was past rural, I remember seeing animal pelts hanging from fences.
I’m surprised you’re not more accustomed to the animal pelts thing. I’m in southern missouri and that’s a pretty common thing to see from hunters. Hell I’ve even laid some pelts over my fence a time or two from various animals I kill.
It's "AR", not "AK". "AK" is Alaska
@@jacobkean03, that's something to be proud of!
Is that near Stankwell Falls?
You're CRAZY for crossing that bridge! Thankfully you survived! Thanks for the scare and the tour. What a beautiful area.
Haha thank you! Luckily it held me - that big creaking noise was not planned 😂
When I clicked on the title that included the word Arkansas, I thought that you were pretty brave to be visiting anywhere in a flyover state. You could hardly call Zinc a town because there really is not much of a town to be seen. I looked up the church address on Google Maps at 6640 Lead Hill Road as you had so kindly included it in the clip. Driving two miles to arrive at a private property which to me, in Google Maps, looks pretty creepy. Hopefully any religious teachings there don't include hateful prejudice speech.
Also, you're a pretty nice big boy to have dared crossing that rickety bridge. I loved watching you tread lightly... All the best. Love your videos as you continue to explore.
Thank you very much! Just saw your channel and will check some of your videos out!
As much zinc as is still used today (the US penny is zinc) I suspect the mine must have played out. Other wise they would still be mining there. History is history, warts and all, I had never hear of Zinc, but was glad you got to test you mettle on that bridge. That the path on the far end was well worn says it still gets used. It was a joy to see all the trikes and playground toys on the basketball court.
Thank you! Yeah as with a lot of these towns, the mine is no longer operating. What a history that town has had!
Law enforcement in surrounding counties were members or probably still active members in the KKK. I lived in Harrison for over a year and found this out.
Nighthawk chapter. That's what they go by.
A Boone County Deputy in 1992 was a active member. One day he had to act as Jailer cuz the real Jailer went on vacation and that deputy ended up raping a methamphetamine addict female in Boone County Jail. That douchebag deputy made that female prisoner pregnant. The baby's DNA spoke the truth. That p. O. S. Deputy got felony probation. Did not even go to the prison Plantation Farms. I wish I can remember his name. His wife work for Mass merchandiser and she got me fired because I'm just a city boy from Miami Florida. She found this out because she had her crooked cop husband running background check on me. But karma got him a rape charge. Call up Boone County Sheriff's Department in Harrison Arkansas and question them about that truth.
Goddamn that’s wild!
Most of these racists are battling something deeper that’s why they have so much hate for others..it’s a reflection of what they’re going through internally.
To rape someone is an abomination.
I’m sure he’s done worse things
Most small towns anymore are on the decline as you know. Glad you survived the bridge crossing. 😮
Haha thanks! 😂
Wow! This video was VERY informative and interesting!!!
Thank you!
My immediate response to the title is No way, (I live in NW Tennessee).I know some prejudice individuals, + "the KKK originated/originated and organized in Pulaski, Tennessee". I love Arkansas, always felt they don't seem quite as preoppucied with "Judgemental", generally speaking.
There are chapters throughout the South, not like in the 1920's - 50's when it peaked, and there were chapters in all states, inc: Denvet, Omaha, KC, etc.
Mississippi and Louisiana actually have held some active chapters.
It is truly tragic to understand that Prejudice is Learned, a fear based belief associated with our Lower Mind Thoughts.
Perspectives, everyone has a choice, once they are Conscious of the facts.
I did a radio show for the Knight's Party for nine years, and it was NOT a racist program. I am also not in the Klan, and never have been, before anyone starts with potentially libelous comments. These people just want to be left alone. I believe they also did Thanksgiving dinners for poor people, including minorities. What they don't like, are the Illegals and swarthy string-pullers. If you are Black and broken down on the side of the road, your chances of being helped are pretty good. You don't have to fear for your life or safety, like you do in LA, NYC or Shitcago.
Bird chirping no sirens nobody running out of stores stealing seems like a peaceful place
That....Was.........interesting!😮 Never heard of the town. A bit creepy, was nervous for you, just watching it! Sad to have that kind of mark on it! Prob wont put this one on my bucket list though!😔
Good or bad you’re right. It was interesting!
If you werent judgemental, you wouldnt have made this video. Leave them alone.
The reason I made the video was because every video I saw about the town was negative. Notice I didn’t say anything negative about the town and actually talked about it’s history.
I thought it would be pretty much like other small town episodes you have covered. Most folks John, take others as they find them, irrespective of race, colour or creed. If they are good to you, be good to them. There are exceptions which always make the news but in general, it's just something for the activists to shout about. I was interested in it being an old mining town as my village is too. Good on you for having a look and thank you for making the video. Very interesting.
Thank you!
I was watching a doc on the KKK and I came across this city while doing research, I live in France but the small towns and your video concept are fascinating. Keep on going !
Thank you!!
I tell you what, almost every church I have ever seen they all invite you in. The church is out in the open, anybody can come in whether you believe or not. They enjoy seeing new people. That church does not look real inviting.
As some one who lives 5 miles from zinc in bergman I love harrison❤
Elaborate
No way is that small town the most racist place in America . Didn't see anyone on the streets making openly racist Tik Toks , or women screaming and shouting in the food joints , so it can't be .
Forgotten little old mining town that in its waning years unfortunately had a representation of hatred move in & attempt to spoil the quaint beauty of the little town of Zinc w/ it's ideology.
Neat video, there were still some neat buildings which seemed mostly intact.
Thank you! Agreed!
Cairo was shocking to me. Now i know there are other places as bad or almost as bad.
Both Cairo and Zinc probably top my list so far for strangest experiences exploring a town.
I heard banjo music in the distance when you got out of your car. Just saying
LOL!
😂
I grew up in San Leandro CA, next to Oakland. Life magazine ran a story in the early 70s saying that San Leandro was the most racist town in the country.
The first black family moved into my neighborhood in 1979, so, yeah...
As always...
Interesting! I wonder what San Leandro is like today? Doing this video I’ve seen a lot of people claim that for different towns!
@TravelwithaWiseguy My mom still lives in the family house, its much different these days.
Oh, I see, you're in Rickety Bridge, Arkansas, home of the rickitiest bridge in the world
😂😂
He's in the rickety racket. 😅
😂
I heard it was Harrison But try Forsythe, GA.
That playground with the lil bikes look like something straight out a scary movie
Метро Нью-Йорка выглядит, как зоопарк. Улицы Чикаго выглядят как джунгли, где случился зомби-апокалипсис.
Zinc is a very beautiful place ❤❤❤❤
I would have assumed a town in these days would have paved streets so that was a total surprise to me
I’ve been to a lot of small rural towns that still have dirt roads. Always interesting when you find them!
With the history of the KKK, I would have to, in the words of Ronald Reagan, have to say "Trust but verify" anything said by anyone in Zinc or around Zinc. Nancy Newman said the town was not associated with the KKK to the north of Zinc. Again trust but verify.
It’s so sketchy my boy had to reassure himself that if a black person can do, so can he 😂 - I fee you on that, though.
So, we're just going to ignore Coeurd'Alene Idaho? I live in Arkansas, and my town of about 600 has zero racists that I know of. Batesville, still sporting a CSA monument, is also really short on racists. Even the folks that fly the Stars and Bars don't profess to hate anyone, and you can see it at their cookouts. Fully integrated. Southern Racism is a myth anymore.
I could have sworn I heard a banjo playing in the background...
READ about Georgia Huffman and Ed Badley story of love gone wrong to give the feel of how this town was back then and read abt Ella Barham times were hard and the drinking was getting out of hand the men were treated terrible in the zinc mines and many many died young they tried to tame the town with religion which im sure helped some but they didnt many pleasures in those times.
The swinging bridge has had some upkeep since this video!!
The reality. It is hard to live in this area. Like anywhere else things cost a lot. Here it is tricky to make money. Mostly we get by. We like our family and friends. If you are different, well, family is family and friends are to hard to come by to be picky. I am open for more friends. We eat at 6,12,5. We never turn folks away. I suppose you know we believe in God and Jesus. We are pro-USA. We don’t smoke or drink. We live, if you can’t say nothing nice-keep quite.
Thanks for the comment!
I did think it would be sad and it was. I had not heard the news about the most racist town but it doesn't surprise me it was in that area. I am sure you were careful but kind of scary.
Definitely a different feeling to visit than most places!
Thank you for commenting on the beauty of the area. It really is a beautiful area. However just like all places and people's it has its detractors.
Thank you!
Put on a black lives matter shirt and walk around. That's the video we want to see.
You can find other videos like that on TH-cam already 🤙🏼
Sounds like a very safe to retire to. Thanks for sharing.
Why didnt you talk to tom bowie?
I didn't see him while I was there.
Thanks for the share!!
That’s as close I would get to a kkk church!
Thank you! It was for me too 😂
Google had the population in 2021 at 92. Love the old school house.
I thought there would be a few interactions with the people of the area.
I spoke with a couple of people but they didn’t want to be on camera.
You have courage and respect 😊....😅..let's move on
Thank you! Back to Kansas next week 😊
Just answering the question at the end of the video, to be honest when I hear "most racist town" I picture a place with big plantation homes with southern gentlemen on the front porch yearning for the days when they can capture people again and make them work. Since they can't anymore, they turn to the KKK to focus their rage, something like that. This town just looked like a town that's on its last legs. It looked pathetic really, just as pathetic as the beliefs at least some in the town hold.
Your thought of what the town might look like is interesting. It did feel like a dying town walking around. At least the lady at the end made sure to disavow the church. But yeah I got the same feeling. Appreciate your thoughts!
@@TravelwithaWiseguy I was glad to see the note, but let's face it, if the church didn't have a congregation, it couldn't survive. Some people either from there or around there are attending
I found out about this town because of a guy making a video about nearby Harrison, which is quite larger. I’m pretty naive about all this, but I do wonder how many people are members of the church. I did some research afterwards and at least the national participation in the KKK seems to be declining significantly.
I can't help but to think it's blasphemous to call a building, that is essentially a racist headquarters, a church.
Galatians 3:28 There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.
Drive into south Central LA. See how the Diversity, equality and inclusion works out for you being white. Then you will realize the difference in places son.
I always thought it was Harrison Arkansas. I used to drive thru it on my way to my uncles farm & always had white power billboards all over the place & everybody was obese
I live in central Arkansas and I have never heard of Zinc.
Dixie outfitters is an awesome establishment ❤❤❤
As the old saying goes.... bad apples in a barrell ecetra... Yada yada. Nothing wrong with these places in general. Just wrong thinking people in the background setting is all. The area is not a kkk stronghold of a populus of people just a very few. The area was in fact Northern Sympathizers and pacifiist in the Civil War. Look over the short lived group of homeguard men called the Arkansas Peace Society. The people would hide and had secret meetings as they tried to secretly organize the protection of their families and loved ones from both Southern marauders, Union and Confederate guerillas bush whackers and Jayhawkers in that time. My GGrandfather's older brothers were living the county over and involved in this movement. They weren't necessarily for any "side", but sympathized with the Union the most. They formed up and trained their own militias who would join up with Phelps, Arkansas 2nd Union Calvary. In Searcy County, next door, one of the largest "breadbaskets" of the time, Richland Valley Arkansas, was a full over pillaging destination for both sides. Boone county, where Zinc is, was not even a county, pre civil war, but a part of Carrol County which is now the Eureka Springs and surrounding area. Many a civilian was killed by all the marauding terrorists I had listed previously. Confederate Governor Rector at Little Rock would even sent men formerly on death row up to terrorize that area because there was a strong Union sentiment. Many of those counties had fewer than a hundred slaves per county as most living there outside of the better valley lands were subsistence farmers. Poor. My own family's mentality was they came fromTennesee, had bought their land from the government in the 1840-50's they felt fair and squarely. They never saw any government agency come over the hill to help them build a farm out of this sheer wilderness. ( This area had only opened up in 1834) so why should they answer a government's call from any side now, they had no slaves to fight for? Even though they favored the Union in a Confederate state. That was their outlook and many other's here. It really has not been that long ago truth be realized.
Are you telling me that CNN is located in Zinc, Arkansas, or are you saying that Don Lemon just moved there?
😂
LOL!! Thomas Robb DID NOT DIE ayear ago. This is 2024 and I saw him in Harrison just days ago as another person commented above. So somebody is confused, Also one of Thomas's sons is an attorney in Harrison.
I been there people friendly you really have to go looking for a problem to find one
Live in PineBluff AR and Zinc becomes the place to be.
i spent my summers in harroson, near lead hill. i did not know about them till i grew up. i know they have a on air station but keep to them selves. no one thinks about them they are fading away
LOL IF ANYONE THERE WAS WONDERING, TELL THEM YOU ARE A
“ LECOMPTON” KANSAN, INSTEAD OF A “TOPEKA” KANSAN!
One of my best friends grew up in Lecompton 😊
A lot could be said about both sides of this. I wouldn't recommend a white guy to go into some parts of Chicago. But I do have to say that town didn't have the homey feeling that most of the towns you go to have, even some of the ghost towns.
Agreed!
Its great aWe stilll have swinging bridges THERE ,IN THIS CRAZY ,MIXED UP WORLD ❤
A great town you could visit is alva oklahoma
Sir my family originated from Arkansas plus where my family lives now is K-Town AKA Knox they also have the ku Klux clan here to
great video
Thank you!
Damn bro slow down you’re driving fast af hahah
Great video. TFS
Thank you!!
AYO NOBODYS PERFECT ALRIGHT STOP HATING ON ME!
Had a friend in the military and his initials were KKK. As a teenager I used to call him that until he explained why. I had never heard of them.
Oh wow that’s unfortunate!
Harrison, AR is pretty sketch.
I drove through but have never spent any time there.
Not sketchy at all. I live there. It's a great town, with a great mayor and lots of great people.
Harrison has a past filled with rumors of KKK activities. Is...or was...also dubbed a most racist town
@@ozarkmtnloghomesbut is it racist
😂😂😂 right.
Video not working right.
What do you mean? Looks like it is working fine on my end.
@@TravelwithaWiseguy It was working OK here also.
Bet you couldn't wait to get off the bridge.
Hardly any information or insight imparted here. You drove around the town, and walked across one rickety bridge, we saw one shirtless man, walking away from you, and heard you talking to exactly one person in the town. Yes, if we wanted to learn more about the town of Zinc, we could watch a bunch of TH-cam videos about it. Or you could have provided it. In terms of the history or current events of the town, he hardly summarized anything.
Serious questions for you: 1) what buildings or historical sites did I not show? 2) what history about the town did I not talk about? 3) can you send a link to a video that gives more historical info about Zinc?
I have watched other videos about Zinc. I’m fairly certain this is the least biased one about the town online. I’m happy to be proved wrong.
The man seems cordial enough. How would you like it if you lived somewhere infamous or embarrassing and have people show up just to ask the same questions all the time? I never heard of Zinc and I am more than willing to look further at other videos or Wikipedia etc.
Thanks man
You're welcome!
Actually know Folks , before You judge THEM,HOW 'BOUT THAT IDEA?!?
AR. state is really sad i think the hills have eyes people come from there
That’s a nice creek