Historic Cane Hill College

Originally founded in 1834 as the first formally organized school in Northwest Arkansas, Cane Hill School holds a significant place in Arkansas history as the home of the state’s first public library and one of its earliest higher education institutions. Over time, the school evolved into Cane Hill Collegiate Institute and later Cane Hill College, becoming one of the first colleges in Arkansas to grant four-year degrees.

In 2017, the historic building underwent a multi-phase rehabilitation effort to preserve and restore its legacy. Phase I included restoration of the exterior masonry, windows, doors, and installation of a new roof. Phase II encompassed 12,180 square feet of interior and site renovations, including a large auditorium, two meeting rooms, kitchen, new restroom, offices, and restoration of the original hardwood floors and doors. Exterior improvements featured enhanced site lighting, accessible handicap parking, and reconstruction of the iconic bell tower.