Located on the banks of the Arkansas River, La Petite Roche Plaza was built around the rock outcropping which gave the capital city its name. Providing a look at the actual “little rock” along with six historical panels that detail the area and city, La Petite Roche Plaza highlights the history of the city of Little Rock, Arkansas, while also becoming a hands-on experience to showcase the significance and history of the city’s landmark and namesake.
The “Big Rock” and “Little Rock”
French explorer Jean-Baptiste Benard de la Harpe noted in his journal the “big rock” on the shores of the Arkansas River upon seeing the first rock bluff since leaving the Gulf of Mexico in 1722. The “little rock” resided in the Point of Rocks, which made it a great landmark for early settles and a basin for boats.
To support the Junction Bridge and ensure adequate passage for river traffic, much of the “little rock” was removed in 1872 and 1884, forever changing the look and layout of the Point of Rocks. In 1932, the Civitan Club wanted to ensure this piece of history was protected, so a 4,700-pound piece of the rock was detached and moved to City Hall. In 2009, this piece of the “little rock” was returned to the banks of the Arkansas River while La Petite Roche Plaza was constructed in 2010. A historical pointer was placed on the spot where the old rock outcropping resided.
As a central part of Riverfront Park, La Petite Roche Plaza allows audiences to connect with the past and present of the city by reading about it or seeing it for themselves. Numerous benches provide a place for visitors to relax, while the open space in the middle of the plaza provides the community with a hub for gatherings and other types of activity. Due to its proximity to the River Market which draws over one million annual visitors, its presence has further enabled tourism for Little Rock.
By highlighting one of the most important landmarks in Arkansas, La Petite Roche Plaza showcases what it can mean to ensure that such history is both protected and celebrated for audiences of multiple eras.
A Legacy for Multiple Eras of Little Rock
Audiences can read about and interact with actual history at La Petite Roche Plaza. These experiences along with the space to relax or partake in a variety of activities have created a legacy for the city that resonates with audiences in the present and will continue to do so far into the future.
