John Lee Webb House Update

Dear Friends and Supporters,

Something wonderful is happening behind the scenes, and we’re thrilled to share the news with you! 

For years, P.H.O.E.B.E. has quietly worked alongside other local nonprofits and community organizations, attending events, supporting initiatives, and contributing wherever we can to see our community grow and thrive. We believe that when our children, women, men, and families are cared for — our entire city benefits. The work can sometimes feel overwhelming, but together, we have proven that great things can happen.

Strategic Shifts and a Renewed Vision

This year, P.H.O.E.B.E. made a strategic decision about how we move forward as an organization. We see change coming — not only locally but across the nation — and we are determined to meet it with the same **style, grace, and determination** as those who paved the way before us. 

Our mission remains strong: to preserve and share the stories of African American life, culture, and legacy in Hot Springs. And central to that mission is the Historic John Lee Webb House — a symbol of heritage, resilience, and community pride.

The Work Ahead: The Historic John Lee Webb House

Located at 403 Pleasant Street, Hot Springs, Arkansas, the John Lee Webb House is a contributing property within the Pleasant Street Historic District (listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2003). 

After completing the hazardous materials abatement, we are now preparing to begin the next critical restoration phase. This work will ensure the home is safe, structurally sound, and ready for its future as a vibrant community space.

Upcoming work includes:

- Repairing and restoring the front door and entrance on Pleasant Street 

- Preserving ornate woodwork while adding modern fire stops and thermal insulation 

- Installing new wood partitions to create functional interior spaces 

- Adding rough plumbing and other essential code-compliant systems 

- Restoring the front porch steps and adding wrought iron railings for safety 

- Engaging licensed professionals — architects, engineers, and electricians — to guide the process and ensure compliance with city and historic preservation standards 

What makes this project truly special is that **the project manager and financial team are all volunteers**. Every dollar we raise goes directly to licensed contractors and restoration professionals — the people doing the hands-on work that brings this landmark back to life.

Our Progress So Far:

Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, P.H.O.E.B.E. has built multiple income streams — from pledge donors, merchandise sales, special events, fundraisers, online giving, and board contributions — to sustain our mission. 

Between 2016 and 2023, we raised $192,000 above and beyond the CDBG and HPRG grants we’ve received. Altogether, that’s $368,916 invested directly into the restoration of the John Lee Webb House — and that doesn’t include the ongoing costs of insurance, utilities, and maintenance, which we continue to cover through community support.

Why Your Support Matters:

Every brick restored, every beam reinforced, and every nail driven into this historic home brings us one step closer to preserving a legacy that belongs to all of us. The John Lee Webb House stands as a living reminder of African American leadership, entrepreneurship, and perseverance in Hot Springs — and your continued support keeps that story alive.

How You Can Help:

We’re entering an exciting new phase, but we can’t do it alone. Your donation today helps ensure that restoration continues without delay — and that this home can soon open its doors to serve the public in exciting ways, educating, entrepreneurship, leadership, exhibits, lectures  and remembering those that came before us.  

Please consider making a tax-deductible donation to P.H.O.E.B.E. today.

Every contribution, no matter the size, helps us move this vital project forward.  Together, we are preserving history, strengthening our community, and shaping the future.

Donate today or learn more at:  www.theuzuriproject.org and click on the John Lee Webb House tab. 

With gratitude, 

The P.H.O.E.B.E. Team

Preserving African American Heritage in Hot Springs, Arkansas