Central College, founded in 1892 and operating in Conway, Arkansas, until 1950, was a women’s educational institution supported by the Arkansas Southern Baptist Association. Efforts to establish the college began in the 1880s, with Conway being chosen as the location due to its central position in the state and substantial local support, including financial pledges and land. The college opened in October 1892, initially holding classes at Conway Baptist Church while a dedicated building was under construction.
Throughout its history, the college experienced several administrative changes and financial challenges. Presidents such as Charles Williams, Seaton Thompson, John Gardner Lile, W. W. Rivers, John W. Conger, Doak Campbell, Charles Hillman Brough, James Sterling Rogers, O. J. Wade, E. S. Preston, and R. L. Whipple led the institution, each contributing to its development and facing various financial and enrollment challenges.
Significant milestones included the completion of campus facilities, transitioning the institution to focus solely on post-secondary education, achieving accreditation, and efforts to improve academic standards. However, financial difficulties persisted, and attempts to move and make the college co-educational ultimately failed.
In 1952, the campus was sold to the Arkansas Missionary Baptist Association and became Conway Baptist College, now Central Baptist College. By the early 21st century, most of the original campus had been demolished, with only a few columns remaining as a testament to its history.
Central College Yearbooks
We have found the following Central College yearbooks online where they can be read or downloaded for free.