About Us

 

“The Mississippi River Delta is a region defined by a unique and vital cultural heritage, a place of commonality and diversity framed by a rich and demanding land.” - Opening statement from original master plan that guided the creation of the Delta Cultural Center

 

The Delta Cultural Center, located in historic downtown Helena, Arkansas, is a museum dedicated to the history of the Arkansas Delta. The museum interprets the heritage of the 27 county Delta region through exhibits, educational programs, annual events, and guided tours. Admission is free; come and experience what the Delta has to offer!

In 1989 a group of Arkansas residents, professionals, and other stakeholders, presented to Governor Bill Clinton a master plan for the development of the Delta Cultural Center. That plan expressed a vision of a cultural center in downtown Helena that would interpret the rich heritage of the Delta and to serve as a catalyst for potential economic growth.

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Starting out as a grassroots effort, the Delta Cultural Center has been in operation since 1990 with the restoration of the Depot. Since then the Center has expanded to include a number of facilities and historic structures as well as several acres of land; all in Helena. The Center serves as a resource and a local, regional, national and even international destination.

The Delta Cultural Center also houses a broadcast booth where two regular programs celebrate our rich musical heritage. The legendary King Biscuit Time radio show is broadcast, Monday - Friday, from 12:15 - 12:45. Each Friday from 1:00 – 1:30 you can also catch Delta Sounds radio show which features music from a variety of musical genres.

The Delta Cultural Center Visitors Center and Depot are open to the public with guided or self-guided tours. Freedom Park, Fort Curtis, and Battery C Park are all outdoor self-guided experiences. Other Delta Cultural Center properties, although not open daily, are open for special events and programs.