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Memphis: The History of Graceland

Elvis Presley is one of the most famous names in pop culture. His influence was unlike any other, and he successfully transcended music, film, and different genres to become a global sensation. He’s well known for his good looks, charisma, music, and his stately home Graceland. More than 40-years after his death, Graceland will host over 600,000 tourists this year. If you’ve ever considered a trip to see “The King’s” mansion or are a die-hard Elvis fan, we’ve detailed the history of how Graceland became what it is today.

About Elvis Presley

Elvis’s story begins in Tupelo, Mississippi in a two-room house. His parents were Vernon and Gladys Presley, and on January 8th, 1938 Elvis and his twin brother Jessie was born. Unfortunately, his brother was stillborn, which meant Elvis spent his childhood as an only child. When Elvis was ten, his parents relocated the family to Memphis, Tennessee where Elvis ended up graduating from high school.

His musical attraction began at a young age, and he was heavily influenced by the country and pop music on the radio. But, most of the music that filtered through his life was the music present at church. His love for gospel music meant he spent quite a bit of time at the all-night gospel sings. Memphis, much like Nashville, is synonymous with music. But, Memphis is better recognized for the Rhythm & Blues on historic Beale Street. R&B was influential throughout the area, and its magnetism didn’t pass by Elvis.

At the ripe age of 16, Elvis landed a contract with Sun Records who hosted artists such as Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Roy Orbison. By 1956, when Elvis was 17, his contract was purchased by RCA. His unique sound, style, and charisma helped him become an international sensation. He was one of the few artists at the time who blurred the lines between social and racial barriers and is cited as ushering in a new kind of music and popular culture in America.

The History of Elvis and Graceland

Besides the impact he made on music culture, another aspect of Elvis’s life that still attracts many fans is his home Graceland in Memphis. The house was built in the early 20th century by a newspaper owner S.E. Toof. Moore called the estate Graceland after his daughter Grace who later inherited the property. It was a 500-acre farm and had been in the family for generations.

In 1939, the property was owned by a Ruth and Dr. Thomas Moore. Ruth was the niece to the home’s moniker. Under their ownership, they changed the house into the colonial-style mansion it is today. Even before Elvis snatched it up, a musical resident already lived there. The daughter of Dr. Thomas and Ruth was an accomplished harp player. Recitals in the front room of the estate were commonplace. She went on to have a career playing with the Memphis Symphony Orchestra.

It switched ownership in 1957 when Elvis purchased the mansion at just 22 years-old. Various sources claim different purchase prices, but we can safely assume the property was bought at around $100,000. The procurement of the home followed a year of success for Elvis, which included memorable TV appearances, record-breaking performances, and many awards.

After his death, the house transferred into his daughter Lisa Marie’s name when she was just 25. Lisa Marie decided to open the home to the public and relied heavily on tourism. In 2005, she sold almost 85% of the estate. Today, the mansion is still in use for family members and friends, although they aren’t often there year-round.

Graceland Facts

Elvis may have traveled the world and had various homes across the U.S., but Graceland remained his constant companion and retreat for the superstar. Here are some interesting facts you probably didn’t know about Graceland.

• Graceland is the second most visited private home in the United States. The first is The White House.

• Elvis had a buzzer installed under the dining table to alert staff that he needed assistance.

• After an attempt to steal Elvis’s body, the family decided to move his grave’s location in the Meditation Garden.

• It’s commonly misconceived that Elvis had a guitar-shaped swimming pool, but it’s actually in the shape of a kidney.

• In the kitchen, you can still see the collars and leashes from the many dogs Elvis owned.

See Elvis’s home in a way you’ve never seen before. Sweet Magnolia Tours offers Graceland VIP Ticket Tour Package. The package includes an all-day pass with front of the line access and so much more. Visit our website to get more information!