Argenta Downtown Council has unveiled a new public art installation commemorating the Trail of Tears. The glass and metal sculptures, created by artist Ed Pennebaker, are located in front of the Argenta Branch of the North Little Rock Public Library System at 420 Main Street in North Little Rock.

Thanks to a grant from the Division of Arkansas Heritage, the art aims to increase public awareness about the Trail of Tears and pay homage to the role downtown North Little Rock played in this significant historical event. 200 years ago, the area now known as North Little Rock was Arkansas’s most active site during the Indian Removal, during which thousands of Native Americans from the Choctaw, Muscogee, Chickasaw and Cherokee tribes were forced to relocate 1,200 miles away from their homes so that white Americans could use their land.

The artist, Ed Pennebaker of Red Fern Glass, says his work is inspired by the environment and nature of our planet. The sculpture combines his signature natural elements with a testament to the resilience and strength of the Native American communities affected by the Trail of Tears.

The Argenta Arts Foundation, in collaboration with The City of North Little Rock and private
individuals, contributed matching funds to ensure the successful completion of this project.
The Argenta Arts Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting and supporting
the arts in North Little Rock by providing opportunities for artists to showcase their talents.