From historic restorations to new beginnings, 2024 has been a landmark year for the Little Rock Repair Shop. As we bid farewell to this incredible year, we invite you to join us in revisiting the moments that made it so memorable.
As we prepare to close the chapter on 2024 and welcome a new year, we’re reflecting on the milestones and partnerships that have defined an extraordinary year for the Little Rock Repair Shop. From open houses to historic restorations, community presentations, and celebrations, this has been a year of growth, collaboration, and impact.
January: A Fresh Start
We started the year with a significant milestone: our new location. This move provided us with the much-needed space to accommodate larger projects, enhance our restoration capabilities, and better serve the growing needs of our community. It also symbolized a fresh beginning, enabling us to expand our vision for preserving history and craftsmanship. This move marked the beginning of a new era for the Little Rock Repair Shop, giving us the space to accomodate a growing demand.

June: Welcoming Our Community
Summer began with an open house, where we introduced our expanded restorationist team. This talented group has brought unparalleled expertise to our projects, ensuring each piece we restore is treated with the utmost care and respect for its history.

August and September: Sharing Our Mission
Our mission to preserve and revitalize history took center stage at the Civitas and City Directors meetings. These presentations allowed us to showcase the importance of restoration work and build partnerships with city leaders who share our passion for preserving Little Rock’s heritage.
September also brought a historic celebration: the 100th Anniversary of the Over-the-Jumps Carousel at the Little Rock Zoo. This milestone event was a true community affair, with families, history enthusiasts, and local leaders coming together to honor the carousel’s legacy. Highlights included live performances, carousel rides, and a heartfelt dedication ceremony recognizing the volunteers and artisans who have kept this treasure operational for a century. As the last fully operational carousel of its kind in the world, this treasure has captured the hearts of generations. Our team was honored to contribute mechanical expertise and celebrate this landmark occasion alongside the community. It is rare to see so many smiles in one place!

October: Expanding Our Impact
October featured another open house and an exciting project: mechanical repairs for the Allan Herschell Carousel at Camp Aldersgate. A sister to the Over the Jumps carousel, our work ensures that this beloved piece of history remains a source of joy for years to come.

November: Recognition and Reflection
In November, we were thrilled to be the cover story in the Arkansas Times, highlighting the dedication and craftsmanship that define our work. The article brought attention to the unique stories behind our projects and the skilled artisans who bring them to life.

December: Festivities and Farewell
As the year drew to a close, we hosted a holiday open house and sale. It was a wonderful opportunity to celebrate a year of hard work and connect with our community while offering unique treasures for the season.

Gratitude for Our Supporters
None of this would have been possible without the incredible individuals and organizations that support our mission. We are truly grateful to everyone who has played a part in getting us where we are today! Special thanks go to:
Kathy Webb, Kapi Peck, and the City of Little Rock
Susan Altrui, Dustin Bean, Casey Hook, and the Little Rock Zoo Foundation
Brian Chilson, Milo Strain, and the Arkansas Times
Monica Denham and the National Carousel Association
Michael Keckhaver and the Encyclopedia of Arkansas
Ashley Sides, Tom Marr, and Arkansas Historic Preservation
Our invaluable restorationists: Doug Jones, Jason Harper, Jeff Waddle, Bobby Cohen, Melissa Dixon, Jeremy Williams, and Nathan Shannon
To everyone else who has lent a hand or shared a kind word—it’s impossible to name you all, but your contributions are deeply appreciated.

In the Media
Our work has captured the attention of local and national outlets this year. Notable coverage includes:
Arkansas Times: “Old Gold: Little Rock Repair Shop Revitalizes Antiques”
Arkansas Democrat Gazette: “Little Rock Zoo’s Over-the-Jumps Carousel Turns 100”
KARK: “Last of Its Kind: Little Rock Zoo’s Over-the-Jumps Carousel Marks a Century”
Only In Your State: “The Carousel is the Only One of Its Kind in the World”
Northwest Arkansas Online: “Horsing Around”
UATrav: “Little Rock Zoo’s Historic Carousel Celebrates 100 Years”
Check out the complete list of media coverage here.

Looking Ahead
As we step into 2025, we’re excited to build on this year’s momentum. Thank you for your continued support, and we look forward to sharing more stories of preservation and community in the coming year.
Happy New Year from all of us at the Little Rock Repair Shop!
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