North Little Rock, Arkansas – The familiar sound of flowing water and rustling trees surrounded visitors Saturday as the historic Old Mill in North Little Rock marked an important milestone — 50 years as a city park.
Residents, local leaders and visitors gathered at the beloved landmark for an afternoon celebration filled with guided tours, family-friendly activities and a ceremonial tree planting. The event honored not only the park’s history, but also the generations of memories created there over the decades.
For many people in North Little Rock, the Old Mill is more than just a scenic attraction. It has become a backdrop for family traditions, engagement photos, weddings and quiet afternoons spent enjoying nature. Surrounded by stonework, greenery and winding paths, the location continues to draw people looking for a peaceful escape in the middle of the city.
“It’s just a beautiful place to come, nothing else — just to sit with your grandkids, your kids, or even your kids to be and to enjoy what we have here,” North Little Rock Mayor Terry Hartwick said.
Hartwick reflected on how deeply connected the site has become to the local community over the years. Families often return again and again, capturing milestones and preserving memories against the recognizable backdrop of the historic structure.
The Old Mill also holds a special place in film history. The landmark is widely recognized for appearing in the opening scenes of the classic movie Gone with the Wind, a connection that has helped attract tourists from around the country for decades.
Its unique architecture and storybook appearance have made it one of Arkansas’ most photographed locations. Visitors from outside the state frequently stop to see the famous site in person, adding to its reputation as both a cultural and historical treasure.
The property officially became part of the city in 1976 when it was deeded to North Little Rock. Since then, the park has remained a cherished public space, carefully preserved through the efforts of city officials, volunteers and supporters who continue working to maintain its charm.
Even after half a century as a public park, the Old Mill remains a place where old memories are revisited and new ones are still being made every day.
