Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash Exhibit Pops Up at Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium

The night of July 7, 1956 at the Ryman Auditorium marked not only Johnny Cash’s Grand Ole Opry debut at 24 years old, but it also serves as the anniversary of the night Cash and June Carter’s love story began. The two had an instant spark when they met backstage, where Cash reportedly told 27-year-old Carter that he was going to marry her one day. Cash kept his word, as the two went on to get married and graced the Ryman stage many times throughout their careers.

The Ryman and Johnny Cash Museum are coming together to create a one-of-a-kind pop-up exhibit as part of the Ryman daytime tour experience to commemorate the 65th anniversary of that special night. The exhibit features special artifacts donated by both the Ryman and the Johnny Cash Museum, including Maybelle Carter’s black Oscar Schmidt autoharp that Carter Cash played during live performances, a dress worn by Carter Cash and a suit worn by Cash himself.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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“We are so thrilled to team up with our local partners at the Johnny Cash Museum to celebrate one of Country Music’s most iconic love stories,” shared Gary Levy, Ryman Auditorium General Manager. “Johnny and June have such a strong connection to the Ryman, and we are excited to share these beautiful artifacts alongside the Johnny Cash Museum, which has the most comprehensive collection of Johnny Cash artifacts and memorabilia in the world.”

“It’s an honor to be involved in this celebratory exhibit at the legendary Ryman Auditorium,” added Bill Miller, Founder/CEO of the Johnny Cash Museum. “Johnny and June, individually and collectively, spent many, many hours in that beautiful building. It’s very gratifying that their presence will be felt there again through this special exhibit.”

The exhibit is now open, and Johnny Cash Museum and the Ryman are offering a ticket bundle that includes self-guided tours of the Ryman and Cash Museum for $40. Tickets can be purchased online now.