Little Rock, Arkansas, is often passed by without a second glance by the 111,000 drivers who traverse Interstate 30 daily. However, this vibrant city is steeped in rich history, waiting to be discovered. Beyond the well-known events, it’s the small stories woven into the paint-chipped bricks that tell the tale of humanity and resilience. If you’re planning a summer staycation or a leisurely afternoon stroll, taking time to explore the lesser-known historical sites in downtown Little Rock can be a rewarding experience with just a bit of preparation.
Discover the “Struggle in the South” at UA Little Rock Downtown
Start your journey at UA Little Rock Downtown, situated in the River Market area. Here, you’ll find a striking 44-foot mural titled “Struggle in the South,” originally painted by artist Joe Jones in 1935 for the dining hall of the Commonwealth College, a radical socialist labor school in rural Arkansas. This mural encapsulates a vital yet often overlooked part of Arkansas’s history, highlighting themes of socialism and labor activism.
Commonwealth College was established in the 1920s to train leaders for labor organizing and activism. The college’s history is rich, featuring partnerships with the Southern Tenant Farmers’ Union and even a federal investigation for allegations of promoting free love. The mural itself vividly illustrates the labor struggles of the era, portraying the harsh realities of sharecropping, the impact of racial violence, and the challenges faced by miners and industrial workers. For four decades, this significant artwork was believed lost, making its restoration a remarkable chapter in local history. To view the mural, you must contact UA Little Rock Downtown Director Marta Cieslak at [email protected] to arrange a visit.
Step Inside the Cultural Legacy of Taborian Hall
Next, head to Taborian Hall at 800 W. Ninth St., a historic landmark that has served various purposes since its establishment. Since the early 1990s, the first floor of this once-grand building has been home to Arkansas Flag and Banner. However, Taborian Hall was formerly the epicenter of entertainment on the Ninth Street “Line,” a cultural hub for the Black community in Central Arkansas. In its prime, the hall was a prominent stop on the legendary Chitlin’ Circuit, hosting renowned artists like Duke Ellington, Ella Fitzgerald, B.B. King, and Sister Rosetta Tharpe.
Similar to the mural at UA Little Rock, Taborian Hall, particularly its Dreamland Ballroom on the third floor, fell into disrepair over the years. Since 2009, the nonprofit Friends of Dreamland has been dedicated to restoring the ballroom to its original splendor. With a grant from the National Park Service awarded in 2021, efforts are underway to revive this historic dance hall. To arrange a visit and experience the cultural significance of Taborian Hall firsthand, you’ll need to coordinate with the Friends of Dreamland director, Matthew McCoy, through their website at dreamlandballroom.org.
Exploring these hidden gems in Little Rock offers a unique opportunity to connect with the city’s diverse history and appreciate the stories that shaped its community. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, taking the time to engage with these sites will enhance your understanding of Little Rock’s past and its ongoing journey.
Sourse : https://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2023/06/12/getting-some-little-rock-history-into-your-summer-staycation