Historic Cane Hill College, located in Canehill, Arkansas, is a two-story brick Italianate building recognized as the state’s first institution of higher learning. Originally constructed in 1886, the building has played an important role in the community for more than a century, continuing to serve as a place for religious services and primary education after the college closed in 1891. WER led a comprehensive, three-phase restoration to preserve the building’s architectural significance and return it to its original 1886 character.

Over time, the building underwent significant alterations, including a major 1931 renovation that introduced larger window openings and repairs using incompatible bright red brick and Portland cement. These interventions contributed to long-term structural issues and accelerated deterioration of the historic masonry. By 2014, the building was in serious disrepair, and the second-floor auditorium was no longer usable.

WER approached the restoration with an emphasis on correcting these issues while preserving the building’s remaining historic fabric. Phase One focused on stabilizing the structure through foundation underpinning. Phase Two addressed the building’s exterior, including foundation stabilization, brick masonry repairs, installation of a new cedar shingle roof, and replacement of later-era windows with custom wood windows carefully designed to replicate the original openings and profiles. Historic photographs served as an important reference in accurately recreating the building’s original window character.

The final phase focused on interior restoration and site improvements, completing the transformation of the historic college into a renewed community asset. Through careful research, structural stabilization, historically appropriate materials, and attention to original architectural details, WER restored Historic Cane Hill College while preserving the character and craftsmanship that define this significant Arkansas landmark.