May 6, 1894

Rabbi Ira Sanders, who became the most well-known and respected rabbi in Arkansas, was born in Rich Hill, Missouri. Sanders came to Little Rock (Pulaski County) in 1926 as leader of B’Nai Israel, the state’s largest Reform Jewish Congregation. He was a dedicated leader of social work and civil rights causes and was a popular speaker. He initiated and led the Little Rock School of Social Work and was an outspoken supporter of integration.