Find Out the First Miss America Winner from Your State

Kellye Cash brought Tennessee its first Miss America crown in 1987. Born in Memphis, she was the grandniece of country music legend Johnny Cash, and her family’s musical background influenced her own talent in piano and vocal performance. Her natural stage presence helped secure her victory.

Cash used her reign to promote the arts and later pursued a career in music and theater, performing across the country. Her win gave Tennessee a proud moment in Miss America history, combining the state’s rich musical heritage with national recognition.