Tupelo, Mississippi

We had 2 days in which to explore Tupelo. We started off by going to Elvis's Birthplace where they now have a small museum, mediation chapel along with the house he was born in and the church that he attended growing up in Tupelo. We really enjoyed going through the complex and seeing the house, church and various items on display in the museum. One thing we both learned during our visit was in 1957 Elvis was asked to come back to Tupelo and do a concert at the Tupelo Fair Grounds. While in Tupelo he went by the home where he was born and noticed that it was for sale. Elvis visited with the officials of Tupelo and struck a deal with them in that he would donate the proceeds from the concert back to the City Of Tupelo so that the house and 13 acres would be developed into a park for the neighborhood children. Just another example of Elvis' generosity that is missed by so many people.  The house where he was born stands in the original spot and has been restored to its original condition, decorated with furniture from that time period. Later on the actual building where Elvis attended church was moved to this location and became a part of the "Elvis Presley Birthplace Park". It was in this church that Elvis was first exposed to Gospel music and also where he learned to play the guitar and sing. As you leave the area the last thing they have for you to see is a replica of a 1939 green Plymouth sedan that the Presley family drove to Memphis when they left Tupelo, Mississippi in 1948 looking for a better way of life.

This home was built by Vernon, his Dad and brother with $180.00 borrowed from his employer, they were share croppers.
1) Back of the house
2) Ken and Charlotte in the swing on porch
3) Front of the house

 We were told that the Presley's did not have wallpaper but had used newspaper and a flour/water mix to insulate the home. 

 

 

After our visit to Elvis's Birthplace we went downtown and stopped at St Jeans Bakery & Cafe for lunch. What a nice surprise! We enjoyed our meal but most of all, the dessert!!! Chocolate Banana Peanut Butter Iced cake in honor of the Elvis!!!  As we were finishing our deserts it started to rain, then thunder and lighting and then it really started to rain. After waiting a little while we made a dash for the car. By the time we got to the car and inside we both were drenched, so we decided to call it a day and headed back to the RV. The rain had settled in for the rest of the evening and so did we.

 

 

More to follow!