Searcy, designated the seat of White County in 1837, was named for Richard Searcy in the same year. Mr. Searcy was a frontier lawyer appointed by Pres. James Monroe to the Superior Court of the Arkansas Territory. Searcy's proximity to rivers and plentiful game made it a natural place to settle. The many springs in the area attracted people from 1820 until the early part of the 20th century, when industry and education took over as the major draw of the area. Today, the gas industry, manufacturing companies, a Walmart distribution center, and educational opportunities make Searcy a thriving community.