Jean-Baptiste Benard de La Harpe was born into a wealthy French family known for having the finest ships in its part of the country. Born in 1683, La Harpe was one of 12 surviving children in his family and became an explorer at an early age. He served as a cavalry officer in Spain, and in 1703 departed on an exploration mission to South America.
Sturgis Plaza, in Little Rock's downtown River Market District, is lovely this time of year. With mild weather and budding foliage, it welcomes resident families and wide-eyed visitors alike to stroll its winding pathways parallel to the voluptuous Arkansas River.