[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 56 (Tuesday, March 28, 2023)]
[Senate]
[Page S996]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               150TH ANNIVERSARY OF BENTONVILLE, ARKANSAS

 Mr. BOOZMAN. Mr. President, I rise today to recognize 
Bentonville, Arkansas's 150th anniversary.
  Founded in 1873, Bentonville has a long and vibrant history. In 1837, 
a site was designated as the county seat for Benton County. Then in 
January 1873, residents filed a petition with Benton County to 
incorporate as the town of Bentonville. On March 28, incorporating 
documents including a petition, map, and transcripts of the court 
hearing were certified, and in April, the certified incorporating 
documents were officially filed with Benton County.
  The county and the town, which became the county seat, were named in 
honor of Senator Thomas Hart Benton, from Missouri, in recognition of 
his advocacy for westward expansion of the United States that resulted 
in Arkansas's admission to the Union.
  Over the years, this community has grown and flourished, becoming a 
hub of commerce and culture in the region. It officially became a city 
in 1905 and was known most for the agricultural activity that 
characterized its economy and lifestyle. Just a few decades later, its 
economic footprint began to change. By 1950, Sam Walton had opened the 
original Walton's 5&10 store on the Bentonville Square and helped 
transform the city as the company continued grow, expanding its 
influence both locally and globally.
  Bentonville is also home to the stunning Crystal Bridges Art Museum, 
which houses a world-class collection of American art. The museum's 
architecture and natural surroundings make it a must-see destination 
for art lovers throughout the U.S. and around the world.
  The Natural State is blessed with over 100,000 miles of streams and 
rivers, 600,000 acres of lakes, hundreds of miles of trails, and over 
3.2 million acres of public land, and Bentonville is a great example of 
a community that embodies the opportunity these outdoor amenities hold. 
The city has become a premiere cycling destination with over 181 miles 
of dedicated trail across Bentonville and neighboring cities in the 
county. These paths have become a key cultural and economic driver and 
represent the strong recreational quality of life that thrives in the 
region.
  Given its rapid growth, I have been proud to work with local leaders 
and support their efforts to improve infrastructure and allow citizens 
to enjoy these trails or access the unique opportunities available in 
the community and throughout Northwest Arkansas.
  Congratulations to the entire Bentonville community on the milestone 
of 150 years and counting. I applaud the City of Bentonville Public Art 
Advisory Committee members for their hard work and dedication in 
organizing the celebratory events. They have brought pieces of the past 
together in a commemorative logo that defines the history, small-town 
feel and culture that is Bentonville. The State flower of the apple 
blossom shares the story of the city's history as a one-time top apple 
producer. I am pleased to see the excitement in recognition of this 
occasion and wish the community the very best as it continues to grow, 
help define northwest Arkansas, and serve as wonderful place to live, 
work, and explore.

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