Two weeks ago an event happened in Pine Bluff: the “Open House” of the Merrill Historical Museum. Approximately 200 former students, interested citizens, community leaders and out-of-town visitors attended.
In 1986, a group of concerned alumni and citizens in Pine Bluff formed the Merrill Restoration Alliance Inc. with the intent of turning the existing building into a thriving community center. The Pine Bluff School District donated the building to the alliance to develop this vision. Again, an arsonist struck and the original building was destroyed in 1986.
The museum houses memorabilia that spans the 90-year history of the first school for black students in Pine Bluff. Merrill School opened in 1885 and closed in 1975 after the integration of all schools. Currently, there is a “cornerstone plaque” from the WPA in 1939; the project rebuilt the school and the auditorium; school record books beginning from 1911, original blueprints, numerous photos, a wall/hall of fame of outstanding alumni who have distinguished themselves throughout the state, nation and the world (Wiley and Leo Branton, George Howard, Cleo Miller, Lawrence A. Davis, Raye Jean Montague, Josetta Wikins and many more).
We are actively seeking additional memorabilia (especially any type of uniforms) to add to our displays.
The intent now is to share this information and history with the citizens of Pine Bluff and surrounding communities, schools, churches and organizations. The museum is located at 1203 W. Pullen Ave., on the site of the original school.
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
Normal hours of operation are Tuesday and Thursday 10 a.m.-noon (closed for lunch) and 1-4 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Arrangements can be made for special occasions by calling the museum office at (870) 329-6579. We will be opened during the UAPB homecoming weekend.
To support the efforts of the Merrill Museum, we invite you to visit our website and make a donation: www.merrillmuseum.com; find us on Facebook: Merrill Historical Museum; or send check to: Merrill Restoration Alliance, 1203 W. Pullen St., Pine Bluff, AR 71601.
Juanita Currie is the chair of the Merrill Restoration Alliance.