Remembering Don Warden
Donald Scott Warden passed away on May 9, 2026, at the age of 68.
Don joined the staff of the Siloam Springs Museum in 1991, where he quickly became a cherished member of the Siloam Springs community. If you visited the Museum, you may remember Don’s kind, welcoming nature, and his ability to answer any question you might have.
Don began oral history so a permanent file would be part of the archives. He brought history outside of the Museum through guided walking tours, historic home tours, Heritage Festival, Kids Day at the Farmer’s Market, and many other community events.
He was born Nov. 10, 1957, in Pontiac, Michigan to Homer Warden and Esther Florence Watson. He grew up in Milford, Michigan, caring for his horses and dogs.
He received a BA in Anthropology at Michigan State University and then a Masters in Anthropology & Museum Studies at University of Arkansas in 1989.
In 2012, he authored the book “Images of America: Siloam Springs” for Arcadia Publishing.
On his 30th anniversary with the museum, the Mayor of the City of Siloam Springs, Judy Nation, read a proclamation honoring Don for his years of service to the community and proclaimed January 20, 2022, as “Don Warden Day” in the City of Siloam Springs.
Don presented the history of Siloam Springs in many ways over his 35 years as Manager of Collections and Research.
But he also shoveled the snow, swept the porch, reused everything, and simply cared for the museum building, the artifacts, the stories and the many people from different countries.
Acting was another passion of Don’s. His participation with the Sager Arts Center spanned several years. One of his last roles was the Stage Manager, in the play “Our Town”. He joked that his white beard made him perfect for the part.
He combined his acting talent with his love of history in a collaboration with the Sager Creek Arts Center. Don presented tales of the outlaws who visited the area in the 1800’s on the porch of the old Park Hotel.
We are thankful for Don’s dedication to Siloam Springs and his work to preserve our history. He will be deeply missed by family, friends, and the staff and board of the Museum.
