Some of Greater Little Rock's most meaningful community investments happen in buildings and places that already carry generations of history.

The Quapaw Quarter Association has announced recipients of its 2026 Greater Little Rock Preservation Awards, honoring work that protects local architectural and cultural heritage.

The awards were established in 1980 and recognize projects, preservation advocates and professionals whose efforts help historic places remain part of community life.

A downtown landmark finds renewed purpose

Among this year's recognized projects is the Bob R. Brooks Jr. Justice Building, historically known as the Boyle Building, in downtown Little Rock.

The recognition highlights the building's preservation and rehabilitated use, involving Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin and partners including Moses Tucker Partners and Arvest Bank.

Adaptive reuse can keep a landmark visible and functional while preserving meaningful connections to a downtown's past.

Preserving African American history

The Fraternal Historic Cemetery is another honoree.

Preservation work at the historic Little Rock cemetery has received support from the Black History Commission of Arkansas and the Curtis H. Sykes Grant.

Cemeteries can preserve family histories and community stories that might otherwise be difficult to recover.

Protecting those sites helps preserve a more complete account of local history.

Care for a historic church

St. Edward Catholic Church is being recognized for efforts to preserve and restore its stained-glass windows, church organ and architectural integrity.

The building was designed by noted Little Rock architect Charles L. Thompson.

Additional awards recognize private home restorations, historically sensitive new construction and individuals who have championed preservation.

Public celebration in November

The association plans to present the awards on Thursday, November 12, at the Mosaic Templars Cultural Center in Little Rock during its annual membership meeting.

The ceremony is described as free and open to the public, including residents who are not association members.

Visitors should confirm registration arrangements with the organization before attending.

Preserving a city is not simply about protecting old bricks and windows; it is about keeping shared stories accessible.

For 501 Daily readers, these honorees show how Central Arkansas residents are investing in the character and history of places they call home.