Background

Mosaic Templars Cultural Center: A Celebration of Black History

Explore the rich African American history and culture of Arkansas at the Mosaic Templars Cultural Center in Little Rock.

4.8

The Mosaic Templars Cultural Center in Little Rock, Arkansas, stands as a beacon of African American history and culture. It preserves and celebrates the legacy of the Mosaic Templars of America and the achievements of Black Arkansans from 1870 to the present. Through exhibits, educational programs, and community events, the center offers an immersive experience into the rich heritage and resilience of Arkansas's African American community.

A brief summary to Mosaic Templars Cultural Center

  • Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Admission to the museum is free, making it accessible to all visitors.
  • Visit on Tuesday through Saturday between 9 am and 5 pm to explore the exhibits.
  • Check the MTCC's website or call ahead to inquire about guided tours and special events.
  • Parking is available in the lot west of the building or on Arch Street.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    From the River Market District, head west on President Clinton Avenue. Turn left onto Cumberland Street, then turn right onto W 9th Street. The Mosaic Templars Cultural Center will be on your left. The walk is approximately 10-15 minutes. There are no tolls or access fees.

  • Public Transport

    From the River Cities Travel Center, several Rock Region METRO buses serve the area. Check the Rock Region METRO website for the most up-to-date routes and schedules. A single ride fare is $1.25. The bus will drop you off within a short walking distance of the museum.

  • Driving

    From I-30, take the 6th Street exit and head west. Turn right onto Broadway Street, then turn left onto 9th Street. The Mosaic Templars Cultural Center will be on your right. Parking is available in the parking lot to the west of the building or on Arch Street. Street parking is also available, but limited on weekdays. Several parking lots are nearby, with hourly rates ranging from $0.50 to $1.50.

Unlock the Best of Mosaic Templars Cultural Center

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Mosaic Templars Cultural Center

The Mosaic Templars Cultural Center (MTCC) is more than just a museum; it's a vibrant cultural hub dedicated to preserving, interpreting, and celebrating African American history and culture in Arkansas. Located in downtown Little Rock on the historic West 9th Street, the center stands on the site of the original National Headquarters of the Mosaic Templars of America (MTA), a Black fraternal organization founded in 1883. The MTA provided crucial illness, death, and burial insurance to Black people during an era when such services were largely inaccessible to them. The organization thrived for decades, becoming one of the largest Black fraternal societies in the United States before facing hardship during the Great Depression. The original MTA building, constructed in 1913, was a symbol of Black economic empowerment and community in Little Rock. After a fire destroyed the original building in 2005, the state of Arkansas constructed a new, state-of-the-art museum on the same site, which opened in 2008. The MTCC's exhibits highlight the history of the MTA, the vibrant 9th Street business district, and the achievements of notable Black Arkansans in business, politics, and the arts. The center also houses the Arkansas Black Hall of Fame and a replica of the original MTA auditorium, a historic community space. The MTCC is not only a repository of history but also an active educational resource, providing lesson plans and outreach programs for students and teachers. These materials fill a critical gap in the teaching of Arkansas history, ensuring that the stories and contributions of African Americans are recognized and celebrated. The center hosts events throughout the year, including the annual 'Juneteenth in Da Rock' celebration, a major event that draws visitors from across the region.

Popular Experiences near Mosaic Templars Cultural Center

Popular Hotels near Mosaic Templars Cultural Center

Select Currency