Settled by pioneers who referred to themselves as rough and ready and named after Thomas Jefferson’s elegant estate in Virginia, Monticello has a colorful past that blends folklore and history to the point where separating one from the other would be nearly impossible–and controversial to boot. Continuous growth and prosperity have made it the hub of southeast Arkansas and a mecca for regionally located Arkansans when hard economic times have hit. Generally believed to be the most affluent town in the state from 1890 to 1920, Monticello provided opportunity, from early on, to those seeking fulfillment of the American Dream. Education has long been at the heart of Monticello’s ability to flourish, and its relationship with the University of Arkansas at Monticello has always been symbiotic.