SW Arkansas Times

Today, the United States Senate passed H.R.7180, a bill introduced by Congressman Bruce Westerman to rename the post office in Kingsland, Arkansas as the "Kingsland 'Johnny Cash' Post Office." The legislation previously passed the House on June 3, 2024.

Congressman Westerman expressed his pride in seeing the bill pass through the Senate, stating: "I am immensely proud to hear that my bill to designate the post office in Kingsland, Arkansas, as the “Kingsland ‘Johnny Cash’ Post Office” has officially passed the Senate." He added that this act honors Johnny Cash's legacy of service and music and thanked Senators Tom Cotton and John Boozman for their support.

Senators Cotton and Boozman also shared statements. Senator Boozman said: “Johnny Cash’s legendary career helped define a generation and still inspires artists today.” He emphasized Arkansas's pride in its native son and noted that naming the postal facility after him is a fitting tribute. Senator Cotton remarked: “Johnny Cash was an Arkansas original with an unparalleled legacy in the Natural State."

The background of Johnny Cash includes his birth on February 26, 1932, in Kingsland, Arkansas. Growing up working in cotton fields, he began performing at high school events and on local radio. In 1950, he joined the U.S. Air Force and served four years in Germany where he wrote classics like "Folsom Prison Blues" and "Hey Porter." After military service, Cash pursued music full-time from Memphis but maintained strong ties to Arkansas.

Thirty years ago, Johnny Cash attended a dedication event at Kingsland Post Office with his family. They performed for nearly 3,000 attendees; afterwards, Cash called it one of his best days ever. A statue of him was recently unveiled at the U.S. Capitol building.

The bill now awaits presidential approval to become law.