• Front facade of Little Rock Central High School

    Little Rock Central High School

    National Historic Site Arkansas

There are park alerts in effect.
show Alerts »

  • Restricted Access to Central High School

    All visitors should park and begin their visit at the National Park Service Visitor Center at 2120 West Daisy Gatson Bates Drive. Do NOT park in front of Central High School or at the Magnolia Gas Station. All school tours require advance reservations.

The Little Rock Nine

Nine African-American teenagers faced great obstacles and angry mobs in September 1957 to desegregate Little Rock Central High School. Ranging in ages from 15 to 17, these teenagers showed an enormous amount of courage and are considered civil rights activists - meaning that they fought for the right for children all over the country to attend the school of their choice regardless of their race.

Today, history remembers these students as the “Little Rock Nine.” Their actions showed the world that individuals who act upon their beliefs can change the course of history.

  • Nine enter Central High, 9/25/1957. Nine enter Central High, 9/25/1957.

    Link to LR Nine site bulletin Read More

Did You Know?

Congressional Gold Medals presented to the Little Rock Nine

In 1999 the Little Rock Nine each received the Congressional Gold Medal-our nation's highest civilian honor-for their efforts to desegregate Little Rock Central High School. Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site