The city of Memphis, Tennessee is probably one of the most historic towns in the U. S.. Historically, it is distinguished for being one of the strongholds of the Confederates during the Civil War. It has also become home to several big names in entertainment and politics. As a consequence, you will see many Memphis monuments that also serve as tourist attractions.
The Elvis Monument
The monument to Elvis Presley, the late King of Rock n’ Roll, is one of the most visited Memphis monuments. Though born in Tupelo, Elvis spent the majority of his life in Memphis and also started his career there. The Statue of Elvis can be accessed 24 hours a day, and 7 days every week. It simply stands there on Beale Street, right in the center of downtown Memphis. The statue is imposing with a height of approximately 9.5 feet. This is a must-see when one is on a holiday in Memphis. Popular activity includes taking group pictures as a souvenir. Entry is free as well.
Elmwood Cemetery
Elmwood Cemetery is one of the famous monuments in Memphis thanks to the many public figures which have been interred in its huge expanse of land. Celebrities, politicians and infantrymen that have shaped the history of Tennessee lie interred in this consequential landmark. In here, one can find examples of Victorian architecture and sculptures like angels, flowers and mausoleums guarded by statues of the people that are buried in them. Elmwood occupies 80 acres developed as a memorial park complete with trees and vistas.
Nathan Bedford Forrest Monument
Another monument to a Memphis-born historical figure, the Nathan Bedford Forrest 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 rapidly through the ranks due to his tactical ability, though preferred, the Monument however is an object of argument because Bedford had improved himself in the slave trade prior to the War and he also became the First Grand Wizard of the Ku Klux Klan.
Graceland
When one thinks about Memphis, Elvis would always come to the advance guard. 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 is buried. Since 1982, Graceland has changed into a public museum and is visited by at least 500,000 visitors each year. The villa is found at 3734 Elvis Presley Boulevard.
Tom Lee Memorial
Last but 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 rescue 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 bravery 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.
Harry Bryant has been fascinated by landmarks in Memphis for several years. He has written op-eds and editorial pieces for many online publications. For full information about Memphis monuments come visit his site.
Source:
http://www.urlshouter.com/2013/09/12/monuments-to-visit-in-memphis/