The Charming Small Town In Arkansas That Was Home To Johnny Cash Once Upon A Time
By Melanie Johnson|Updated on April 05, 2024(Originally published August 21, 2022)
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Melanie Johnson
Author
I am a nature lover and self-proclaimed foodie wrapped in one package. In my previous life, I was an Accountant, but numbers were boring and writing is the only thing that fuels my soul. So, I write because it's my freedom...it brings me joy. When I'm not writing dope articles for OnlyInYourState, I am writing and editing articles for my online blog on Medium.com. Or, when I get the chance, I am off on a trip with my family chasing waterfalls, or simply exploring the great outdoors. My mantra is to always find the best part of every day and bask in it.
The boy, the man, the legend, Johnny Cash is one of the most iconic figures in American music history. His talent expands across various genres including country, rock n roll, blues, gospel, and folk music. But this country star came from humble beginnings. After being born in Kingsland, he grew up in a charming small town in Arkansas.
On February 26, 1932, a boy who became a legend, was born in the small town of Kingsland, Arkansas. That legend was no other than Johnny Cash, lovingly known as "JR" to locals and his family.
Initially, the town was formed as a colony to help sharecroppers and struggling farmers regain their footing during the Great Depression.
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As part of a resettling program issued by the Roosevelt administration, Cash’s family received 20 acres of land and a five-room house in the Arkansas Delta.
Cash would call the farming town of Dyess home until 1950, when he left for the Air Force after graduating from high school.
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Back in 2009, the Arkansas legislature with the help of the Arkansas State University devised a plan to revitalize the town using its rich agricultural history along with Cash’s influence.
Between 2009 and 2014, the house along with the old administration building and the theater, were restored and are now part of a tour that attracts thousands of visitors every year.
…and after working with members of Cash’s family, Arkansas State University restored the house back to its original form with great attention to detail.
Not only did the charming town of Dyess mold the man, but it also became the inspiration for much of his incredible music. And though the town wasn’t his birthplace, his legacy thrives on throughout it.
But Arkansas wasn't only home to Johnny Cash, there are notable artists like Al Green, Billy Bob Thornton, and Glen Campbell, just to name a few.
If you would like to tour Cash’s boyhood home in Johnny Cash’s hometown of Dyess, visit the Dyess Colony website for schedule and prices.
And if you’re interested in visiting another Arkansas small town, here’s one that is brimming with charm. Take this road Atlas along for the ride in case you need to orient without GPS.
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