Near this spot in 1837 Robert Messer built the first house in Center Point. A few years later John Russey opened the first store. Center Point acquired its name and post office in 1848, and became an incorporated town in 1859. Held by the Confederates throughout the Civil War, Center Point was raided by Carpetbagger State Militia in 1868 because of its southern sympathies. It was the first county seat of Howard County from 1873 to 1905. On February 12, 1900 Jeff Davis opened his first campaign for Governor of Arkansas with an address here.