Press Release: Reflecting on a Century of Local Events
Little Rock, AR—May 19, 2025
As we mark a century of significant events in Little Rock’s history, this date presents a tapestry of moments that have shaped our community over the years, highlighting the impact of both joy and adversity.
On May 19, 1925, a tragic accident occurred when an unattended Oldsmobile Touring car rolled down Seventh and Wolfe streets, crashing into a family on their porch. The incident left a woman and her two children with serious injuries. At the time, Mrs. W.B. Dunlap, the car’s owner, had parked it in front of her home with reportedly functioning brakes, raising concerns among neighbors about vehicle safety.
Fast forward to 1975, amid the Vietnam War, Army Secretary Howard H. "Bo" Calaway announced a potential decision regarding the opening of additional military installations to accommodate Vietnamese refugees. At Fort Chaffee, nearly 24,000 refugees found shelter. This facility reportedly reached its capacity, prompting discussions about relocating more individuals.
In 2000, Little Rock’s Advertising and Promotion Commission took a bold step by approving a lease for the Memphis-based Peabody Group to manage the Excelsior Hotel. The deal would bring significant renovations to the downtown hotel and introduce the famous Peabody ducks, expected to enhance tourism and local economy.
Most recently, in 2015, a Little Rock doctor faced serious legal repercussions following an extensive investigation into fraudulent prescriptions for oxycodone. Dr. Richard Johns was charged with 187 counts of a felony for allegedly distributing nearly 17,000 pills unlawfully, a stark reminder of the challenges regarding prescription drug abuse in our community.
These stories reflect a century of highs and lows in Little Rock, illustrating our resilience and evolution as a city. As we look forward, we honor our past while working toward a safer and more vibrant future.
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