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Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site is a preserved educational institution located in Little Rock, Arkansas, USA.

Visual Characteristics

The school is a large, three-story brick building constructed in the Collegiate Gothic architectural style. It features limestone detailing, arched doorways, and prominent towers. The exterior brickwork is primarily red, with contrasting lighter stone accents. The building's footprint is substantial, occupying a significant portion of its city block.

Location & Access Logistics

The site is situated at 1500 South Park Street, approximately 2.5 kilometers south of the Little Rock city center. Access is via South Park Street and West Daisy Lane. Limited street parking is available in the vicinity, and visitors should be aware of local parking regulations. Public transportation options include the Little Rock Metro Streetcar, with a stop within walking distance of the school.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Construction of Little Rock Central High School was completed in 1927. It was designed by the architectural firm Mann & Stern. The school was originally built to serve as a comprehensive high school for the city of Little Rock, intended to be a model of educational architecture for its time.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can participate in ranger-led tours of the school's interior, focusing on the events of 1957. Self-guided exploration of the exterior grounds is permitted. The Visitor Center provides exhibits detailing the history of school desegregation and the Civil Rights Movement.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available within the Visitor Center. Limited shaded areas are present on the grounds. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally reliable in this urban area. Food vendors are not typically located on-site, but are available in the surrounding commercial districts.

Best Time to Visit

The best time of day for photography of the exterior is late afternoon, when the sun illuminates the facade. The most favorable months for visiting are April through October, offering mild weather conditions. No specific tide requirements apply to this inland site.

Facts & Legends

A unique historical detail is that the school was designated a National Historic Site in 1998, recognizing its pivotal role in the American Civil Rights Movement. The "Little Rock Nine," the group of African American students who integrated the school in 1957, faced significant opposition, requiring federal intervention.

Nearby Landmarks

• Arkansas State Capitol Building (1.5km Northwest)
• William J. Clinton Presidential Center (2.8km Northeast)
• Old State House Museum (2.2km North)
• MacArthur Museum of Arkansas Military History (2.0km North)