In 1824, two Nunn brothers, John (Jr.) and Carlton, from Georgia decided to run a line of boats through the Arkansas Territory. John to operate from Ecore A-Fabre to New Orleans and Carlton to pole freight boats up the Ouichita and Little Missouri rivers to Washington, Arkansas. John, his wife, and their 4 children became the first permanent settlers of Ecore A-Fabre (later renamed Camden.) John built a log hut on the high bluff on the west side of the Ouichita river. It is recorded that in 1839, John's house was still the most outstanding. It was used for church, courthouse, jail, and store. In "Memoirs of Southern Arkansas" published in 1890, John's family was given as Eliza, Ira, Samuel, and John (3rd) In 1890, all were dead but Ira, who was a "venerable citizen" of Camden. The earliest Justices were, in order, Richard Tate, John Nunn (Jr.), and Hiram Smith. The first corn mill was John's. Union County, Arkansas was formed November 2nd, 1829, five years after the Nunn's arrived and Ouichita County was formed out of Union November 29th, 1842. The first Methodist service was held at John's house about 1827. A state historical marker in Camden, describes the founding of the city and the role played by John Nunn, Jr. Ira, son of John, Jr., offered ground and house for the next county seat. In 1841-1842, Ira built the first gin; in 1861, Ira was a commission merchant.

Mrs. Barbara Nunn Goodlett of Texarkana, Arkansas shows John Jr. arriving in Arkansas in 1813.