City history
Tracing the journey of Little Rock from its riverbank origins to its role as a central political and economic capital.
Chapter one
Earliest documented name
"A reference to a small rock formation in the Arkansas River."
The name was not derived from an indigenous term; instead, it refers to a prominent rock outcrop in the Arkansas River used as a landmark.
Rock formation landmark
Established as the capital of the Arkansas Territory in 1821.
Chapter two
Following the nationwide adoption of standardized time by railroad companies, Little Rock transitioned from local solar time to Central Standard Time.
The implementation of the Uniform Time Act standardized the beginning and end dates for daylight saving time across the United States.
Chapter three
Little Rock was officially designated as the capital of the Arkansas Territory, marking its formal establishment as a political center.
Arkansas was admitted to the Union as the 25th state, cementing Little Rock's role as the state's administrative hub.
The construction of the Arkansas State Capitol was completed, providing the state with a permanent and grand legislative seat.
Expansion of aviation infrastructure in the region began to modernize transportation and connectivity for the growing city.
The revitalization of the River Market District began, transforming the historic riverfront into a vibrant commercial area.