Wednesday, June 22nd
This morning we headed for Graceland. In my younger days, I was an Elvis fan. As I will always remember where I was the day Kennedy was shot and where I was when the planes went in to the World Trade Center….I also remember where I was when I heard Elvis died.
Graceland was purchased in 1957 for $100,000 as a home for Elvis and his parents. For as much of a superstar that Elvis was, Graceland is not as elaborate or overdone as I had expected. I could really see him living there. It was a little tacky in some rooms but that could be in any of our houses.
The second floor of Graceland is not open to the public. Apparently, it remains as it was the day Elvis died in his bathroom on August 16, 1977 allegedly of a heart attack. However, there are conflicting reports as to the cause of his death.
After Elvis purchased Graceland he carried out extensive renovations among them a racquetball court that now houses a display of Elvis’ sequined jumpsuits. on entering the racquetball court the area is reminiscent of a old country club. There is also a upright piano which Elvis played the night before he died.
The Trophy Room was originally a sidewalk that Elvis enclosed to display his many awards. Today its many walls display records, movie posters, old time memorabilia, the three Grammys Elvis won and the famous hall of Elvis’ gold records.
Last area on the tour of Graceland is the Meditation Garden which is one of Elvis’ better known modifications. This is where Elvis, his parents, Gladys and Vernon, and grandmother are buried. A small stone memorializes Elvis’ twin brother Jesse Garon who died at birth.
Across from Graceland, at the Visitor’s Center is a building housing Elvis’ car collection including his mother’s favorite pink Cadillac.
That’s it for Graceland…..now for the long drive home…..
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