Gov. Asa Hutchinson donated $100,000 from the state's discretionary budget to continue restoration work at the Johnny Cash Boyhood Home in Dyess, according to a news release from Arkansas State University, which manages the home through its Heritage Sites program.
The money will be used to acquire materials from original Dyess buildings to use in additional renovation projects. A barn will also be built that can be used as a classroom, conference room or special event space.
"As we promote Arkansas tourism, we recognize that a significant part of the future of tourism in this state is our heritage sites, including the Johnny Cash Boyhood Home in Dyess,” Hutchinson said.
The governor made the announcement at a fundraiser, titled An Evening with Rosanne Cash, in which the daughter of the award-winning country star performed and took photos with donors.
“We appreciate the governor’s understanding of the value of Arkansas heritage and history," ASU Chancellor Tim Hudson said. "We have benefited from the work and support of many people along the way, including other members of the Cash family.”
The Johnny Cash Boyhood Home opened in August 2014 and is open to the public from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Saturday.