The Rebirth of Argenta

Downtown North Little Rock, 1990s

I've been talking about downtown North Little Rock for a while, so how about the story of its rise from death.

The Lost Rialto, North Little Rock

Note: Haircuts, 35 cents.

Continuing through the Argenta Historic District, we come to one landmark that left us years ago. The Rialto Theater shares a name with another one of my favorite places. This art deco beauty was torn down in the 1970s or 1980s as part of what they called "urban renewal" (my fist). Guess what's in it's place these days.

Argenta Drug Co. Sign, North Little Rock

Downtown North Little Rock

Argenta Drug Co. has been in North Little Rock since 1885 or so and still operates as a drugstore. The sign is in sad shape and I don't think the neon is still functional, but it's a great example of an art form that has all but vanished in the 21st century.

Thomasons Building, North Little Rock

Google Map

Downtown North Little Rock, commonly called the Argenta Arts District, is one of my favorite places in the Little Rock metro. More to come.