A bit of Memphis history

 July 2, 2022

Tom Sawyer RV site 102

West Memphis, Ar

Sometimes the best laid plans don't pan out as expected.  It's getting pretty close to July 4th and there are fireworks for sale everywhere.  Reading the rules of RV parks, you usually find a statement in the rules for the park that reads something like: 'No fire arms or fireworks allowed'.  The location of this campground lends itself to being isolated from the public so Momma figured I would have a very comfortable July 4th.  You see, I REALLY don't like all that banging and popping that goes along with the colorful display.  

Well, last night was a noisy night...right here in the campground.  And unfortunately, this is one of the rare campgrounds that doesn't have a 'no fireworks allowed' statement in their rules.  I'm sure hoping that the guests who purchased the fireworks to set off early ....before the 4th...either were here for one night or they have already set off their supply of noise makers.  At least they weren't the super loud ones ...but I still don't like them!!

It was quiet here during the daytime though, especially seeing as Momma and Dad ran off into Memphis to participate in a Discover Memphis Tour by Backbeat Tours.  

Larry got behind the wheel of the bus to drive while entertaining his guests with delightful tales.

Did you know that Elvis was a blonde but decided that his features were more expressive and pronounced with dark hair?  Shoe polish did the job before he made enough money for professional hair color.  Larry pointed out the low income apartment that Elvis and his parents resided in during Elvis's teen years.

Beale Street was known for it's bars, dives and 'ladies of the evening' back in 1910 when Edward Crump was running for Mayor.  He vowed, if elected, he would 'clean up' Beale Street.  As it turned out, he was elected and served a 4 year term.  Beale Street remained the same, but Crump collected a 'naughty tax'/bribe money that never made it to the city coffers.  Signs of a corrupt politician?!?!

Fred Smith is another interesting fellow.  He attended Yale and submitted an economic paper that earned him a 'C' as his professor told him that his proposal would never be possible.  Fred wasn't influenced by that C and after graduating and serving in the military, he implemented his plan for overnight delivery....establishing Federal Express/ FedEx.  Wouldn't you love to see the expression on that professor's face?

During the 1800's, yellow fever epidemics dramatically lowered the population of Memphis by 75%.  The 'well to do' who could afford to move, left the area and the devalued property in the area was eventually sold.  Robert Church began purchasing property, building great wealth in real estate and became the first black millionaire.  He was a very successful businessman and philanthropist founding the Solvent Saving Bank which offered loans to blacks.

Memphis also has an area referred to as Victorian Village.  

These once homes are now museums but Momma was sad that they weren't open for viewing while we are here due to the 4th of July holiday.

 'I am a Man' Plaza shares the history of the sanitation workers who went on strike for higher wages and better working conditions.

Engraved stones circling the plaza share the history of this historical event.

After lunch at Central BBQ, the tour group made a stop outside the Lorriane Motel, the site where the assasination of Martin Luther King took place.

Momma and Dad said the tour was well done and very informative with a delightful tour guide who I'm sure earned lots of tip money. 

Hey Dad, I hope you still have some money in your pocket for my dog bone treats.  I hope you didn't totally empty your pockets in Larry's tip bucket, although I'm sure he deserves it!

I'm Chloe