Ten Arkansas Historic Sites Earn National Register Recognition

Ten Arkansas properties have been added to the National Register of Historic Places, recognizing sites that reflect the state’s educational, cultural, architectural and community history.

The Arkansas Historic Preservation Program announced the additions for September and October following approval by the National Park Service.

The properties range from historic schools and university campuses to cemeteries, homes, commercial districts and markers commemorating Arkansas history.

Historic Schools and Community Landmarks

Several of the additions recognize the role education has played in Arkansas communities.

North End Elementary School, Helena-West Helena: Part of the city’s African-American school system from 1947 until integration in the early 1970s. Its principal, Mattye Whyte Woodridge, founded National Teacher’s Day.
Arkansas Tech University Historic District, Russellville: Includes the historic core of the campus, with buildings dating primarily from the 1910s through the 1970s.
Henderson State University Historic District Boundary Increase, Arkadelphia: Adds buildings to the university’s existing historic district, highlighting its importance to Clark County’s Educational History.

The Magnolia Cemetery Historic Section in Helena-West Helena was also added. Established in 1871, the cemetery is the final resting place of prominent African-American residents, including educator Eliza Miller and politician William H. Grey.

Historic Homes, Commercial Districts and Markers

Other additions highlight distinctive architecture and landmarks tied to the state’s development.

Mabel Vallea House, North Little Rock: A rare example of a Lustron home, built around 1949 using porcelain-enameled steel panels. Its garage is believed to be the only surviving Lustron garage in Arkansas.
Charles and Eula Brown House, West Memphis: Built in 1934-1935, the home is a notable example of Tudor Revival architecture.
Marinoni Ensemble Homes, Fayetteville: A five-unit apartment building constructed in 1935 that was designed to resemble a single-family home.
Hobson Avenue Historic District, Hot Springs: Commercial buildings dating from 1924 to 1945 reflect the growth of a neighborhood served by a streetcar line.

Two historic markers were also included: the Pulaski County Government Marker in Little Rock and the Izard County First Court House Marker in Melbourne. Both were installed in 1937 as part of Arkansas' centennial commemoration.

Ralph Wilcox, national register and survey coordinator and deputy state historic preservation officer, said the additions reflect Arkansas’ rich and diverse history.

More information about the National Register of Historic Places is available through the Arkansas Historic Preservation Program at ArkansasHeritage.com.