The country witnessed the Little Rock Nine Story unfold as the 9 black students tried to enter the formerly all-white school. Because of the television news, followed by its infancy, these events have commanded a worldwide attention. Because of this, Little Rock have come to symbolize the commitment of its federal government in eliminating the separate education systems of the whites and blacks.
The Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site Visitor Center is one of Little Rock’s most-visited landmarks. The center offers information about Little Rock Nine through its interactive exhibits which commemorates the events and tells the story of the Little Rock Nine. The Central High School was also named as “The Most Beautiful High School in America” by the American Institute of Architects when Little Rock Central Highschool was built in the year 1927. Today, the high school still operates and it is the only operational high school which is sited within a national historic site’s boundary.
History:
While the students were coming back to Little Rock Central High School, an all-white institute, during fall of 1957, there were 9 new African-American students who will be joining them. However, because of the federal desegregation law’s direct challenge, Gov. Orval Faubus called the state National Guard and asked them to block their way. The state ordered Gov. Faubus toback down, however, the moment that the Little Rock Nine reached the campus, over 1,000 furious white protestors assembled to the site. Immediately, President Dwight D. Eisenhower have responded by sending backups, the federal troops. On September 25th, the troops have accompanied the Little Rock Nine into their class and remained to guard them all throughout the year.
The clash between the Little Rock Nine and Gov. Faubus was photographed. Because of it, Little Rock Central High School was placed at the focus of the ongoing struggle of the state to integrate the facilities of the public education. Even after the Little Rock Nine’s admission to the school, Gov. Faubus still continued his advocation for segregation. However, these nine students became the symbol of optimism and courage.
What You Need to Know:
This center opened last September 24, 2007 marking the 1957 desegregation crisis’ 50th anniversary. The center features around 3,000 square feet of permanent exhibits which covers the events that happened at Central High School in 1957 and its role, together with the Little Rock Nine. This former visitor center, now a restored Mobile Service Station, can now be used for various special programs.
Business Hours:
The center is closed during Christmas Day, New Year’s Day and Thanksgiving Day. Admission is Free. And because of the elevated risks of COVID-19, Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site Visitor Center is closed temporarily since August 7, 2021.
Sunday 9:00 am – 4:30 pm
Monday 9:00 am – 4:30 pm
Tuesday 9:00 am – 4:30 pm
Wednesday 9:00 am – 4:30 pm
Thursday 9:00 am – 4:30 pm
Friday 9:00 am – 4:30 pm
Saturday 9:00 am – 4:30 pm
Nearby Parks
- President William Jefferson Clinton Birthplace Home National Historic Site
- Arkansas Post National Memorial
- Hot Springs National Park
Another exciting center that you should not miss here is the William J. Clinton Library and Museum. So, prepare yourself now for A Tour to William J. Clinton Library and Museum.