Original Walmart to Receive Historical Marker

ROGERS, AR. - The Arkansas 250 Commission will officially recognize the birthplace of a global retail empire. A historical marker is set to be dedicated at the site of the first Walmart, located at 719 West Walnut Street in Rogers, Arkansas.

This dedication is part of a broader statewide effort to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States, with 11 historical markers being installed across Arkansas to commemorate significant milestones.

The first "Wal-Mart Discount City" opened its doors on July 2, 1962. While the original building now houses Shelby Lane Antiques, the business grew rapidly from its humble beginnings. Store #1 eventually expanded into a large Supercenter located nearby at 2110 West Walnut Street.

Company history also remembers the opening of the second location in Harrison, Arkansas, during the summer of 1964. According to company lore, the event became legendary due to extreme 110-degree heat. The heat caused promotional watermelons to burst in the parking lot, which, combined with donkey rides organized for children, created a sticky sludge that customers tracked throughout the store.

The timing of the marker's dedication is particularly significant. J.R. Shaw, the director of Destination Rogers, noted that the event takes place during "associates' week" in Northwest Arkansas. This is the period when Walmart and Sam's Club bring employees from around the world to the region for the annual shareholders' meeting and various corporate celebrations. Shaw emphasized that the ceremony is a major event for the city of Rogers, the surrounding region, and the state of Arkansas.