The Arkansas Historic Preservation Program’s next Sandwiching in History tour will visit the Philander Smith College Historic District, 900 W. Daisy L. Gatson Bates Drive in Little Rock, at noon Friday .
The free Sandwiching in History tour series targets Pulaski County structures and sites. The series includes a brief lecture and tour of the subject property. Participants are encouraged to bring lunch.
Walden Seminary, the precursor to Philander Smith College, was established in 1877 by the Little Rock Annual Conference of the Methodist Episcopal Church, a news release announcing the tour states.
In 1882, the seminary received an endowment from Adeline Smith, whose late husband was interested in the work of the Methodist Episcopal Church in the South, prompting the institution’s name change to Philander Smith College, the release states.
On March 3, 1883, Philander Smith College became the first historically black, four-year college in Arkansas. The college offered vocational training, as well as courses in journalism, Greek, Latin, algebra and philosophy. In 1948, Philander Smith purchased the old Little Rock Junior College buildings at 12th and Izard streets, and that corner remains the center of campus today.
The American Institute of Architects offers one continuing education learning-unit credit for members who attend the tour.
Other 2014 Sandwiching in History tours will be held:
May 2, O’Kelley House, 413 W. Fifth St., North Little Rock.
June 6, Barney L. Elias House, 335 Goshen Ave., North Little Rock.
July 11, George Dickinson House, 515 W. 15th St., Little Rock.
Aug. 1, Old North Little Rock post office, 420 Main St., North Little Rock.
Sept. 5, Rozelle-Murphy House, 1301 Scott St., Little Rock.
Oct. 3, Augustus Lane House, 3617 Ridge Road, North Little Rock.
Nov. 7, Roundtop Filling Station, Trammel Road and Roundtop Drive, Sherwood.
Dec. 5, Joseph W. House House, 2126 S. Arch St., Little Rock.
Those seeking more information can call the Arkansas Historic Preservation Program at (501) 324-9880; write the agency at 1500 Tower Building, 323 Center St., Little Rock, Ark., 72201; send an email to info@arkansaspreservation.org; or visit www.arkansaspreservation.com.
Arkansas, Pages 11 on 04/05/2014