Welcome to the Encyclopedia of Arkansas

Everything from Book cover featuring falling person reaching for guitar Fall Through to Meteorite on display including didactic text in library with bookshelves in background. Meteorites

This Day in Arkansas History

September 25, 1965

Basketball star Scottie Maurice Pippen was born in Hamburg (Ashley County), the youngest of twelve children. Pippen dreamed of playing college basketball but was only 6’1″ and 150 pounds as a high school senior. As a favor to his high school coach, Pippen was offered a position with the basketball team at the University of Central Arkansas (UCA) in Conway (Faulkner County). This offer was not for a playing position but as student manager of the team. During his four years at UCA, Pippen grew to 6’7″ and 210 pounds, and also grew in skill and experience. Used even in his freshman season because of openings on the team, Pippen eventually played all five positions on the team.

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About the Encyclopedia

The CALS Encyclopedia of Arkansas is a free, authoritative source of information about the rich history, geography, and culture of Arkansas. It is updated regularly to ensure the people of Arkansas have an accurate and accessible resource to explore our heritage. We invite you to browse our text entries and media galleries to learn more about the people, places, events, legends, and lore of the 25th state. We are continually adding new entries, photographs, maps, videos, quizzes, lesson plans, and more, so check back frequently to see what’s new.

New to Arkansas?
New to Arkansas?

Our overview page covers everything you would want to know about our beautiful state, including state symbols, demographics, and more!

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