A 1950s annex and breezeway, which at one time housed the Arkansas History Commission, was demolished. Removal of this later addition proved essential in the Old State House Museum being granted National Historic Landmark status in December 1997. With the 1950s annex removed, the back doorway which once led into the breezeway was restored to a window - its original function.
Wooden floor joists were repaired or replaced. Cracks in the interior plaster also were repaired. New electrical wiring replaced the outdated 1940s system. Bathrooms also were made wheel-chair accessible, and a new elevator was installed in the East Wing.
Lifts were installed between the Central block and the East and West Wings
to allow wheelchair access to the entire building. Construction of a new annex for staff offices and collections storage completed the construction. Prior to this project, staff offices were scattered throughout the museum, creating problems with the heating and cooling systems due to variance in temperature and humidity. By removing staff offices from the historic structure, the new annex helps provide more exhibit space within the museum.
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