Southern Hospitality

We first drove through the southern tier of states ten years ago. We focused on the Gulf coastal area that trip. On a road trip, we like to visit small local restaurants and ask what we should see or do in the area. Ten years ago, we were surprised the suggestions focused on Civil War and confederate monuments. 

This time, we are exploring southern hospitality, the civil rights movement and miscellaneous historical spots. In Memphis, we toured the Civil Rights Museum. The extensive history was well-documented. The more recent history included many events I did not remember. Of course King’s assassination on the balcony of the Lorraine Motel is remembered. Seeing the spot both from the exterior and interior was something I never thought I would do. Very moving and somber. 

Being in Memphis, music is on our mind. We toured Graceland years ago. Music and Graceland means Elvis. Going through Tupelo, Mississippi, Elvis' birthplace, we thought we'd drive by his childhood home. Of course, that drive meant we needed some Elvis music and maybe Tupelo Honey by Van Morrison playing as we toured. There is also a Vietnam Replica Wall in Tupelo. With family members and friends serving in that war, we seldom miss an opportunity to stop and pay our respects.

Our civil rights touring continued as we walked Birmingham historical spots, like the 16th Street Baptist Church and Kelly Ingrim park. So much to learn! And we walked through the Eddie Hendricks garden with the salute to the Four Tops. 

At the end of the day, we laid our head on pillows and slept comfortably in the Peacock Room of a southern mansion (bed and breakfast) called the Hassinger Daniels Mansion in Birmingham. This 12,000+ square foot Victorian mansion is listed on the National Registrar of Historic Places and has a rich history. I tried to get some photos that could capture the elegance of this mansion. There are better photos online.

That southern hospitality carried through to a mouth-watering breakfast served so graciously in the morning. What a pampered treat being served so royally. A wonderful stay and fantastic start to our day.

Duck March

At the beginning of this road trip, there was a list of favorite things we planned to do. Apparently visiting locations on the National Registry of Historic Places should have been included. The Peabody Hotel in downtown Memphis is another stately, distinctive building on the National Registry. The original Peabody was built in 1869. "In 1925 a newer, grander Peabody was built at its present location of Union and 2nd Street, continuing the legacy of the 'South's Grand Hotel.' It was 1933 when ducks were originally placed in the hotel's lobby fountain, setting in motion an 85-year tradition that continues today with the March of the Peabody Ducks." (history)

Yes, that is a definite tourist draw. People who don't stay at the hotel join hotel guests in the lobby for the famous Peabody Duck March at 11AM, as the group of five ducks descend down the elevator from their rooftop home, march across the red carpet and climb steps into the antique large marble fountain. They swim in the lobby fountain throughout the day until the Duckmaster returns promptly at 5 PM to retrieve them from the fountain, march them back to the elevator and up to their rooftop home. Search online for Peabody Duck march video to watch this fun event.

The hotel itself is a luxurious four-star establishment. The service and restaurants are impeccable. The staff were very kind and helpful. We felt pampered when they upgraded our room to a larger one with a great view of the city at night. Or the generous supply of tiny rubber duckies. Or opening the rooftop area early in the morning so we could visit the ducks before we left. 

The location is great; walkable to Beale Street and close to museums and other attractions. Of course, being close to amazing southern barbecue and other restaurants is a plus. Yet, it is the famous ducks which are the huge draw for sure. It's one of the main reason we splurged on this overnight stay...and it was worth every penny. In addition to photos posted here, take a look at the Peabody's website Gallery of Photos.

Library and Music

This week has been busy. Time to slow down a little and stimulate our minds by delving into history. Our first stop of the day is also our first-ever presidential library visit. Well, we did stop by Lincoln's home and state museum in Springfield, Illinois last April. As the ranger there pointed out, it was prior to the presidential libraries of the modern era, so nothing in comparison to this.

The Clinton and Reagan libraries rival in size so I read. Not having seen Reagan’s (yet), I cannot compare them. I can confirm that Clinton’s is packed with so much detail. Every year of his presidency is documented with video, artifacts and more. Every single “daily schedule” is laminated and put into labeled three-ring binders so you can easily find a specific day and see the minute-by-minute outline of the day. Whew! And I thought I was detailed. 

White House China. Golf bag.  Saxophones he played. Full-size replicas in detail of cabinet room and Oval Office. The presidential seal is even embossed on the ceiling. 

Beautiful large grounds surround the library and other buildings. There is an old bridge over the river, which provides a nice walk. Flowers enhance the rusty bridge and provide great photos. There are boardwalk walking trails. Outdoor seating for the restaurant “42”. 

Ok. Presidential libraries are cool. They might join our list of future travel stops. 

From the presidential library in Little Rock, Arkansas, we drove the two-hour stretch of I-40 to Memphis, Tennessee. Ten years ago we visited Memphis for the first time and toured Graceland. 

This year, we walked to Beale Street for an early dinner remembering the huge partying crowd when we visited after dark last time. Beale Street isn't exactly our typical vibe. This year was great. We enjoyed live music and good food without the crowds. 

Source: https://youtu.be/RLeANPP7DZY?feature=shared