Graceland
Graceland is the iconic estate of Elvis Presley, located at 3764 Elvis Presley Boulevard in Memphis, Tennessee. The mansion was built in 1939 and was named after Grace Toof, the daughter of the home's original owner, Ruth Brown Moore. Here are some detailed aspects of Graceland:
History
- Purchase: Elvis Presley purchased Graceland on March 19, 1957, at the age of 22 for $102,500.
- Residency: Elvis lived in Graceland from 1957 until his death in 1977. It was his primary residence for the majority of his adult life.
- After Elvis: After Elvis's death, the estate was inherited by his daughter, Lisa Marie Presley. It opened to the public as a museum in 1982, with the stipulation that the upstairs, where Elvis died, remains private.
Architecture and Design
- Style: Graceland is an example of Southern Colonial architecture, with a columned front porch, a spacious lawn, and a circular driveway.
- Interior: Elvis added several personal touches, including a jungle room with a waterfall and exotic plants, a pool room with fabric-lined walls, and a trophy room showcasing his awards and costumes.
- Expansions: Over the years, Elvis expanded the mansion by adding the Jungle Room, the Meditation Garden, and various other rooms to accommodate his growing family and his needs as a celebrity.
Meditation Garden
- Memorial: The Meditation Garden at Graceland serves as the final resting place for Elvis Presley, his parents, Vernon and Gladys Presley, his grandmother, Minnie Mae Presley, and an empty grave reserved for Lisa Marie Presley.
- Visits: Fans from around the world visit the garden to pay their respects, especially during Elvis Week, which commemorates Elvis's birthday and death.
Cultural Impact
- Music Heritage: Graceland is not only a home but a symbol of Elvis Presley's legacy, representing the heart of American rock and roll.
- Tourism: It has become one of the most-visited private homes in America, attracting over 600,000 visitors annually.
- UNESCO: In 2016, Graceland was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, acknowledging its cultural significance.
Graceland Today
- Museum: The mansion itself is part of a larger entertainment complex that includes museums dedicated to Elvis's cars, airplanes, and career highlights.
- Events: Graceland hosts numerous events, including weddings, concerts, and special Elvis-themed celebrations.
- Ownership: In 2013, the estate was opened to the public under the management of Elvis Presley Enterprises, with Lisa Marie Presley retaining ownership.
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