AR HCR1001

Julius Rosenwald constructed 5,357 schools and related buildings in 15 southern states between 1912 and 1932, partnering with educator Booker T. Washington to improve education for African Americans.

The Rosenwald School building program is recognized as the most important initiative to advance Black education in the early twentieth century, yet remains largely unknown to most Americans.

Ralph Wilcox, Deputy State Historic Preservation Officer for the Division of Arkansas Heritage, identified remaining Rosenwald Schools in Arkansas and submitted written nominations between 2004 and 2006 for eligible buildings to the National Register of Historic Places.

The Division of Arkansas Heritage completed a comprehensive survey and found that fewer than 20 of Arkansas's original Rosenwald Schools survived; 11 are currently listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The House and Senate recognize Ralph Wilcox and the Division of Arkansas Heritage for their preservation work on Arkansas Rosenwald Schools.