Last week, I got to go on a field-trip with my son’s gifted and talented program at school.   The point was to travel around Little Rock and North Little Rock to historic landmarks and let the kids take pictures of the places we went.   It was not just an educational experience for the kids–it was for the adults that went as well.   It’s amazing how many neat places we have here in Central Arkansas to visit.   I’m very excited to get to share some of them with you.

I thought I would do this in a series.   The first stop we made on our mini-adventure was to The Old Mill in North Little Rock.

The Old Mill (also known as Pugh’s Mill) was constructed in 1933 by Justin Matthews and  is a re-creation of an 1880′s water-powered grist mill.   It was seen in the opening scenes of the classic movie “Gone With the Wind.” It is the only structure remaining from the 1937 film.   It’s construction is mostly tinted concrete over steel and copper rods made to represent wood, stone and iron.   It was put on the National Register of Historic Places back in 1986, and is maintained by the Pulaski County Master Gardeners and North Little Rock Parks and Recreation.   It was also awarded the Greater Little Rock Historic Preservation Award by the Quapaw Quarters Association.

Beautiful sculptures and designs by Mexican artist Senor Dionicio Rodriguez can be seen throughout the park.   It is decorated with sculptures of toadstools, tree stumps and  several ornate bridges.   His work was renovated by his grandson, Carlos Cortez,  in 1991.

The  Old Mill is  utilized for various activities such as weddings and photo shoots.   Of course, it is also enjoyed by young and old alike for relaxing and meditation.    It is free of charge, and is open from sunup to sundown.  

It is definitely a serene place to visit when coming to the North Little Rock area and is enjoyed by the locals as well.

This concludes our bit of Arkansas History for the day.   Be looking out for what’s to come!

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