A worker at the KOA suggested that we see the newly opened Johnny Cash childhood home. This morning we headed to Exit 41 on I-55 North to Dyess, Arkansas. Dyess began as colony created by FDR's economic recovery plan during the Great Depression. 500 out of work Arkansas farmers received 20 acres of land, a newly built house, a barm, and chicken coop to clear the land and begin farming again. The farmers were expected to repay the government and the Cash family moved to site 266, farmed the land, paid $2000 to own the land/house and stayed there 20 years. Johnny lived there from age 3 to 18. Many of the songs he wrote were about his experiences in Dyess. His home has been restored. We spent nearly two hours there learning about the history of the Dyess Colony and Johnny Cash. Arkansas State University oversees the historical site and has many plans to recreate other portions of the colony. If we are back in this area, we will return to see what new has been added.
We had our final supper with family tonight and a final card game was played to beat the one to one tie from last night. I am sorry to say that Carol and his sister Jean lost. Carolyn's granddaughter came tonight and took pictures. All I have to post tonight are from my small camera. Tomorrow we head home.
Kimberly, the photographer, with her frog camera. She uses it to get unruly children to quiet down for good pictures. She surely had an unruly bunch with us!
Center, from left to right.
Jean, Peggy, Don, Darrell, Carol, Mary, Carolyn
The siblings.
Jean and Carolyn
Don, Darrell, Carol
This is the Administrative Building. It was used to receive payment from the farmers and provide other services.
The interior was completely refinished and restored.
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