The University of Arkansas at Monticello (UAM) will continue restoration efforts on two historic properties and begin work on a third project thanks to a $934,269 grant awarded to the university from the Arkansas Natural and Cultural Resources Council (ANCRC).
In May, the ANCRC approved the FY2025 grant funding for UAM.
The Visual and Performing Arts Center, built in 1954 and previously used as the Student Union on UAM’s Monticello campus, received $855,012 in funding for the first of a two-phase renovation process. The first phase will address exterior renovations, including roof repairs, restoration of stone veneer, concrete elements and steel windows, and new rooftop HVAC units and exterior painting. The building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
UAM also received $45,115 for the Trotter House and $34,142 for the 1937 Faculty House. Both projects will enter the final phase of a three-phase renovation.
The Trotter House, in Monticello, Arkansas, operates as a bed and breakfast and provides learning opportunities for UAM students in the hospitality program. Built in 1896, the Eastlake-style house was owned by prominent banker V.J. Trotter and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The ANCRC’s grant funds will support the renovation of the interior wood trim.
The interior restoration of the 1937 Faculty House, located on UAM’s Monticello campus, will see the replication of the original wallpaper, which will be installed in the living room, first floor hallway and stairwell. The house was built in 1937 and served as faculty housing until 2018. The structure, designed by Little Rock architect A.N. McAninch, is an early example of the Art Moderne style in southeast Arkansas and is largely unchanged from its original construction. It is the last remaining structure from the original faculty village and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
“We are extremely grateful to the ANCRC for its continued support of UAM’s historic properties,” Dr. Peggy Doss, chancellor of UAM, stated. “The Visual and Performing Arts Center, Trotter House and 1937 Faculty House are all on the National Register of Historic Places, and we greatly value the history they represent at UAM. The grant funds provided are essential to support necessary restorations and ensure these buildings continue to play a significant role in the future of the university. This year marks the first grant funds received for the Visual and Performing Arts Center. We are excited to have this building, which is prominently featured on campus, undergo improvements that will create a better space for our music program.”
