08/14/2025
Today's feature is on the Boone County Quilt Trail which is sponsored by Explore Harrison. #22-06, The Burlsworth Block is located on the Brandon Burlsworth Youth Center sign facing 202 S Spring Street, Harrison. How many people do you know whose life story has been chronicled in a book and has also been the subject of a feature film? Brandon Burlsworth’s journey began right here in Harrison, Arkansas. When former Harrison Goblin, Brandon Burlsworth, arrived on the University of Arkansas campus in 1994, he had no money, no famous last name, and absolutely no Division 1 scholarship offers. Through his unbelievable work ethic and ceaseless determination, Brandon not only earned a scholarship, but became team captain, All-SEC 1997-1998, First Team All-SEC 1998, Football News First Team All-American in 1998, and the first All-American from the University of Arkansas in a decade. His success was not limited to the gridiron. He was also named to the All-SEC Academic Honor Roll every year from 1995-1998, he was also the first football player in the entire history of his university to earn a Masters degree “before” playing his last game. Brandon was selected by the Indianapolis Colts as the 63rd overall pick in the 1999 NFL draft. After minicamp, he was projected by his coaches to start as a rookie. Unfortunately, Brandon was tragically killed in a head-on automobile collision just eleven days after the draft. In 1999, the University of Arkansas created a scholarship endowment in Brandon’s name. Eighteen $5,000 academic scholarships, and one $10,000 Walk-On athletic scholarship are given out each year. The Brandon Burlsworth Foundation is also engaged in various charitable endeavors including the provision of free eye-care to thousands of underprivileged children. In 2010, the Burlsworth Trophy was created to honor the achievements and successes of the Walk-On athlete. It is presented annually to the Most Outstanding player who began his career as a Walk-On. This block was sponsored by Explore Harrison, designed by Connie Rogers, created by Kastle Graphics, LLC in Harrison, AR.
Find the locations of over 630 quilt blocks across the state and the story behind each at ArkansasQuiltTrails.com.
