Arkansas State University Museum

The Arkansas State University Museum, located in Jonesboro, serves as a vital center for the preservation and interpretation of the cultural and natural heritage of Northeast Arkansas and the greater Mississippi Delta region. Established as both an educational and public institution, the museum offers a wide range of resources that engage students, researchers, and visitors of all ages.

One of the museum’s most notable assets is its extensive archival and photographic collection. Highlights include the Northeast Arkansas Photographic Legacy, a project that produced over 1,200 historically significant images, as well as the Curtis Duncan collection, featuring nearly 3,000 photographs that capture the everyday life, traditions, and transformation of the Delta. These visual records, alongside numerous family collections dating back to the early days of photography in the 1840s, offer a unique and intimate view into the region’s past.

The museum also houses a substantial library containing more than 3,000 historic books, including rare first editions of missionary and pioneer memoirs that reflect the early settlement and cultural development of the area. Complementing this historical core is a modern collection of approximately 4,000 additional volumes, supporting scholarly research in museology, regional history, and collections management.

While the library is non-circulating, it remains accessible to both ASU students and the general public during office hours or by appointment. The museum’s exhibits and resources serve not only academic inquiry but also community learning, making it a vital bridge between the university and the wider public.

Through its thoughtful curation, educational programs, and commitment to regional history, the Arkansas State University Museum plays an essential role in preserving the legacy of Northeast Arkansas and ensuring that its stories remain accessible and relevant to future generations.