RECOGNIZING THE 150TH ANNIVERSARY OF MALVERN, ARKANSAS

On 2026-06-03, Senator John Boozman (R-AR) delivered a floor speech titled "RECOGNIZING THE 150TH ANNIVERSARY OF MALVERN, ARKANSAS" in the Senate.

RECOGNIZING THE 150TH ANNIVERSARY OF MALVERN, ARKANSAS

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 94 (Wednesday, June 3, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 94 (Wednesday, June 3, 2026)] [Senate] [Page S2521] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS ______ RECOGNIZING THE 150TH ANNIVERSARY OF MALVERN, ARKANSAS Mr. BOOZMAN. Mr. President, I rise today to recognize the 150th anniversary of the city of Malvern, AR. Located in central Arkansas, Malvern has built a proud heritage rooted in hard work, innovation, and community. Since its incorporation in 1876, generations of residents have helped shape a city known for its resilience, strong local economy, and commitment to preserving its unique character. Established along the Cairo and Fulton Railroad, Malvern quickly emerged as a center for commerce, agriculture, and industry. Its designation as the Hot Spring County seat in 1878 further strengthened its importance to the region and helped lay the foundation for decades of growth. The area's rich clay deposits made Malvern an ideal location for brick production. Following devastating downtown fires in 1896 and 1897, residents rebuilt with brick, helping establish an industry that would become closely associated with the community. The presence of Acme Brick Company further cemented Malvern's reputation as a manufacturing center and contributed an identity it proudly adopted as the ``Brick Capital of the World.'' Wartime needs spurred further industrial activity in the region in the 1940s, including extensive barium mining as well as the construction of an aluminum reduction factory and the Lake Catherine Steam Generating Plant within Hot Spring County. These industries, along with the presence of the Reynolds Metals Company, supported economic growth and helped draw in new residents and opportunities to the area. Today, the community is home to Arkansas State University Three Rivers and the Ouachita River Whitewater Park, which invites visitors from across Arkansas and neighboring States. The area's many attractions also include the widely renowned Garvan Woodland Gardens, a botanical estate on Lake Hamilton developed by Malvern's Verna Garvan and bequeathed to the University of Arkansas Department of Landscape Architecture. Congratulations to the entire community on this sesquicentennial celebration. The city's rich history and continued growth are a testament to the strength of its people and their commitment to building a bright future. I am pleased to recognize this milestone and join Arkansans in celebrating 150 years of achievement, service, and community in Malvern. ____________________