The University of the Ozarks, located in Clarksville, Arkansas, holds the distinction of being the oldest university in the state. Tracing its historical roots back to 1834 when it was originally established as the Cane Hill School in Washington County before later relocating to its present campus, the private liberal arts institution is also recognized as one of the oldest institutions of higher education located west of the Mississippi River, boasting a rich heritage spanning nearly two centuries.