[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

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         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.

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