Welcome to the Encyclopedia of Arkansas

This Day in Arkansas History

February 5, 1851

Twelve members of the Sisters of Mercy order in Ireland arrived in Little Rock (Pulaski County) after Bishop Andrew Byrne went to Ireland in search of an order of sisters to promote Catholic education in Arkansas. The day is now known as Mount St. Mary Academy’s “Founders Day.” Mount St. Mary Academy in Little Rock is Arkansas’s oldest educational institution and the state’s only all-girl secondary school. Today, Mount St. Mary educates about 550 high school students.

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About the Encyclopedia

The CALS Encyclopedia of Arkansas is a free, authoritative source of information about the rich history, geography, and culture of Arkansas. It is updated regularly to ensure the people of Arkansas have an accurate and accessible resource to explore our heritage. We invite you to browse our text entries and media galleries to learn more about the people, places, events, legends, and lore of the 25th state. We are continually adding new entries, photographs, maps, videos, and audio files, so check back frequently to see what’s new.

New to Arkansas?
New to Arkansas?

Our overview page covers everything you would want to know about our beautiful state, including state symbols, demographics and more!

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