Cotton

Cotton, also called 'White Gold,' is the leading cash crop in Arizona. This means that out of all the crops farmed in Arizona, cotton earns the most money for the state. Additionally, it provides many farmers with jobs, resulting in the state producing almost 70% of the nation’s American Pima Cotton.

It has found a spotlight in Arizona’s history due to it’s exceptional number of uses. It is absorbent, soft, strong when wet, therefore, it takes well to laundering, and durable; there’s nothing quite like it. Cotton takes the fastest to dyes, holds its shape, resists fraying, and is adaptable to a wide variety of constructions and finishes. It is a universal material that can be found in the home or at the factory, an amazingly familiar fiber that has been grown since 3000 BCE.

The United States makes about 20% of the entire world’s supply. Cotton provides one-eleventh as much revenue as all meat animals, dairy products, all other livestock, poultry and eggs combined.

Women who were between the ages of 19-22 would compete as models for selection to be that year’s Maid of Cotton. Upon selection, she would receive a $500 scholarship to her college, an all-cotton wardrobe, and a self-improvement course from Plaza Three Modeling and Finishing School. As a representative from Arizona, she would travel the state to represent the cotton industry in fashion shows and programs for local civic and agricultural groups. In the first alternate, she would receive an additional $100 savings bond and a $50 savings bond would be awarded at her second alternate.

Competing for the national title of Maid of Cotton occurred in Memphis, Tennessee. The Maid of Cotton selected here represents the American Cotton Industry. She is awarded with an original cotton wardrobe and a goodwill tour of the United States, Canada, Europe, and Japan. Upon completion of the tour, she returns to Memphis where she is honored by Memphis District Ford dealers with a new automobile.