History

Pankey Park is located within the historic Pankey community, one of the last remaining communities established by Josephine Irvin Pankey, an educator, philanthropist, and pioneering African American real estate developer. Beginning in the early 1900s, Josephine Pankey purchased and subdivided land to create opportunities for African American families to own property during the era of segregation. The Pankey community grew into a close-knit neighborhood with churches, schools, businesses, and a strong tradition of civic involvement that continues today.

The park has long served as a neighborhood gathering place and has recently undergone significant renovations, including a new playground, upgraded basketball court, pavilion, sidewalks, and other accessibility improvements. These investments continue the park’s role as a community hub while honoring the legacy of one of Little Rock’s most historically significant neighborhoods.