Monuments in Memphis

By Harry Bryant


The town of Memphis, Tennessee is probably one of the most historical cities in the United States. Traditionally, it is prominent for being one of the strongholds of the Confederates in the Civil War. It has additionally become home to a few important players in entertainment and politics. As a consequence, one can find many Memphis monuments that also serve as tourist draws.

The Elvis Monument

The monument to Elvis Presley, the late King of Rock n' Roll, is amongst the most visited Memphis monuments. Though born in Tupelo, Elvis spent most of his life in Memphis and also started his career there. The Statue of Elvis can be accessed 24 hours per day, and 7 days every week. It simply stands there on Beale Street, right in the heart of downtown Memphis. The statue is imposing with a height of roughly 9.5 feet. This is a must-visit when one is on a vacation in Memphis. Popular activity includes taking group photos as a souvenir. Admission is free as well.

Elmwood Cemetery

It is amongst the well known monuments in Memphis due to the many public figures which have been interred in its vast expanse of land. Artists, officeholders and squaddies that have formed the history of Tennessee lie interred in this historic landmark. In here, one can find examples of Victorian architecture and sculptures like angels, flowers and mausoleums guarded by statues of the individuals that are buried in them. Elmwood occupies 80 acres developed as a commemorative park complete with trees and vistas.

Nathan Bedford Forrest Monument

Another monument to a Memphis-born historical figure, this monument is devoted to the memory of Nathan Bedford Forrest who was a popular tactician in the Civil War. Serving at first as a personal in the Confederate Army, but rose swiftly through the ranks due to his tactical ability, though preferred, the Monument however is a subject of controversy because Bedford had enriched himself in the slave trade prior to the War and he also became the 1st Grand Wizard of the Ku Klux Klan.

Graceland

When one thinks about Memphis, Elvis would always come to the forefront. Apart from the Statue of Elvis, another monument to the King of Rock n ' Roll is the Graceland Mansion itself. Here's where Elvis lived in the city of Memphis, and this is also where he's buried. Since 1982, Graceland has changed into a public museum and is visited by over 500,000 visitors every year. The villa is located at 3734 Elvis Presley Boulevard.

Tom Lee Memorial

Last though not the least among the monuments in Memphis, the Tom Lee Memorial Park is a tribute to Tom Lee, an African-American boatman who rushed to the assistance of U.S. Norman in 1925. On May 8, 1925, the steamer had an accident that resulted to it being sunk. However , thanks to the courage and compassion of Tom Lee, 32 lives were spared death. Lee rushed to the rescue with his ship - which he named "Zev" - and gathered the survivors. In gratitude, Tom Lee received the commemorative from the people of Memphis.




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