Craig Ogilvie, a native of Batesville, Arkansas, has significantly contributed to the state’s cultural and historical landscape through his work as a photographer, illustrator, and writer. Beginning his career in the 1960s, Ogilvie played a pivotal role in promoting Arkansas tourism during his tenure with the Department of Parks and Tourism from 1975 to 2005. Ogilvie was instrumental in producing the annual Arkansas Tour Guide, for which he provided both written content and illustrations, and he has maintained a personal collection of every edition since 1975.
“I started collecting old photographs at age 16, and many of them were stamped “J.R. Lewis.”, Ogilvie explained on his Facebook page. “The pictures were made in Izard, Sharp and Independence counties, which drew my attention….but they were also well proportioned and interesting.”
According to Ogilvie, Lewis was born in 1870 in the present-day Maxville community (southern Sharp County). His father, Dr. Samuel Lewis, moved his family from Tennessee soon after the Civil War and moved again to Barren Fork in 1882. Joseph Robert (J.R.) Lewis started taking professional studio photos at age 19, and soon became a “traveling photographer,” with Barren Fork his base and also his home. Lewis eventually settled into a storefront across from the Landers Theater on Main Streetin 1906.
Beyond his official duties, Ogilvie’s passion for Arkansas history and culture is evident in his diverse projects. He has created detailed maps for historical publications, such as the “Newspaper History of Cave City, Arkansas,” and has contributed to various local history initiatives. His storytelling prowess is also showcased in his writings on topics like the White River and historic theaters in Arkansas.
Ogilvie’s dedication to preserving and celebrating Arkansas’s heritage has earned him recognition, including the Tom Biggs Award and induction into the Arkansas Tourism Hall of Fame. His multifaceted contributions continue to inspire appreciation for the state’s rich history and natural beauty.
If you would like to 
get a current state travel guide, map, calendar of events, outdoor booklet, parks guide and more (all free of charge) by calling 1-800-NATURAL, or visit Arkansas.com and click on “Free Guides.”
After more than 50 years of service to tourism, including 30 years as a travel writer for the State Tourism Division, Craig and wife, Sue, retired to their home in Batesville.
Karin Huffman is an Independence County native who graduated from Cushman High School in 1996. Traveling throughout the state is one of her passions, along with writing about her adventures.
Taking over as travel writer for the Ozark Gateway Region is a dream come true for Huffman who lives in the region with her two daughters, Grace and Stella.
As a family, they enjoy canoeing the Poke Bayou, Salado Creek and the many waterways along the White River in Independence County. Camping and hiking throughout the region is a must for them in the spring and fall as well.
Huffman is an avid nature photographer who will do just about anything to find the perfect waterfall shot, and has visited many in the great state. From Twin Falls and the Richland Creek area in Northwest Arkansas to little known places off the beaten path, waterfalls will be found.
Huffman has been a travel writer for the Eye on Independence Magazine as well as a staff writer for the Batesville Guard, and is looking forward to devoting her time to traveling throughout the eight county region that the Ozark Gateway offers.
If you would like to contact Huffman about an adventure or would like to know how to get more information out about your area, contact her at 870-307-5473, karinhuffman78@gmail.com or karinozarkgateway@sbcglobal.net.