North Little Rock, Arkansas – A beloved piece of Central Arkansas history will soon disappear from the landscape after standing for more than a century. The St. Joseph Center of Arkansas, a historic brick structure that has served generations of Arkansans since 1908, is set to be demolished following a devastating fire earlier this year that left the building structurally unsalvageable.
The fire, which broke out on March 19, 2025, was fueled by unusually dry weather conditions that plagued the state at the time. What began as another emergency call quickly escalated into a major disaster. Fire crews responded, but the damage to the aging building was too severe. Months after the blaze, the building remains a shell of what it once was, with charred interiors and crumbling supports.
Now, church and community leaders say the time has come to say goodbye.
“The cost to restore the current building is believed to be over $20 million, and that does not include putting in air conditioning, which the current building did not have, or the cost of operating the building once rebuilt,” said Bishop Anthony B. Taylor of the Diocese of Little Rock.
The bishop stressed that this decision wasn’t made lightly. “Sadly, the most prudent decision for the future of that property and the people of the diocese is to demolish the building — and the Diocesan Finance Council, Presbyteral Council, and the Diocesan Pastoral Council all concur unanimously in this decision,” he added.
For many, the St. Joseph Center was more than bricks and mortar — it was a symbol of community, faith, and agricultural history. Built as an orphanage in the early 1900s, the building had long since evolved into a community-centered urban farm and education hub run by the St. Joseph Center of Arkansas (SJCA) for the past 15 years.
In response to the news of the demolition, the SJCA released a heartfelt message:
“We are of course heartbroken as are all those this amazing place has touched over the last 116 years. However we remain hopeful that SJCA’s work will continue. NQBTM (Not Quitting Before The Miracle)!”
Despite the heartbreak, SJCA leaders emphasized that their mission will go on. The farm, which operates on the property surrounding the historic structure, continues to be a rare example of urban agriculture within city limits. It combines grazing and growing practices and has become a model for sustainable farming, education, and community outreach.
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“We are optimistic about the future. St. Joseph Center continues its vital work running the farm. The farm is a unique urban agricultural landmark with a history spanning over 100 years,” the organization stated. “We’ll continue partnerships with local gardeners, farmers, educators, and community groups, ensuring the farm continues to serve as a resource for sustainable agriculture practices, educational programming, and community events.”
There is also hope that the Diocese will support this work in a more permanent way. SJCA has expressed interest in securing a long-term lease — or even purchasing the land — to ensure the farm’s continued role in the community. “We are hopeful that the Diocese of Little Rock will support our ongoing mission… by allowing us to lease the farm for the next 100 years or giving us the opportunity to purchase.”
For now, the focus shifts to planning a careful and respectful demolition process, while ensuring the safety of the site and the continued operation of the farm. The community, while mourning the loss, remains committed to honoring the legacy of the St. Joseph Center by supporting its ongoing agricultural mission.
“St. Joseph Center of Arkansas thanks our community, partners, and supporters for their steadfast commitment during this transitional period. Together, we look forward to cultivating a vibrant, sustainable future,” the center said.
Though the iconic building will soon be gone, the spirit of St. Joseph Center — rooted in service, sustainability, and education — will continue to grow.
