Barkman House renovations begin February 13

Renovations will begin February 13 at the James E.M. Barkman House, 356 North 10th Street, on the Henderson State University campus. The work is funded by an $850,000 grant from the Arkansas Natural and Cultural Resources Council (ANCRC), which prioritizes “projects that protect and maintain state-owned natural areas, historic sites, and outdoor recreation.”

“We cannot begin to thank ANCRC enough for this investment in such an important landmark to Arkadelphia and Henderson,” Dr. Trey Berry, Henderson chancellor, said. “Generations of Reddies know Barkman House as the former panhellenic house, and most recently, as the alumni house. We are excited to see Barkman restored to its historic glory.”

According to the Encyclopedia of Arkansas, Barkman House was constructed around 1860 and “is an example of a transitional Greek and Gothic Revival-style house.” Barkman House was “added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1974.”

Barkman House currently includes office space for Henderson Foundation and the university’s alumni, development, and marketing and communications teams. These offices will relocate temporarily to Proctor Hall, 1028 Henderson Street, beginning February 13.

Renovations will include new roofing, repair of all wood on the exterior of the building, insulation and duct repairs, painting, and structural repairs.

Also, the historic fence at Barkman House will be removed prior to road work associated with the Arkadelphia bypass construction. The fence will be restored and later reinstalled after road work is complete.

Renovations at Barkman House are expected to continue through May 2024.