Founded on a bluff overlooking the mighty Mississippi River, Memphis,
Tennessee has been known as the city of white gold (for the cotton
shipped from its waterfront), home of the blues, and the birthplace of
rock 'n roll. Tourists from around the world flock to see historic Beale
Street and no visit is complete without a tour of Graceland, Elvis
Presley's home. In addition, Memphis has become a Mecca for historians
and tourists interested in immersing themselves in the history of the
civil rights movement in the United States. Over 250 vintage postcards,
most from the early to mid-20th century, document the historic and
nostalgic scenes of this important southern city. From the skyscrapers
of its vital city-center, historic churches, and cultural centers to the
noteworthy bridges, historic homes, and important waterfront areas,
Memphis emerges as a dynamic city, determined to overcome the urban and
economic hardships of the past. Today, visitors to Memphis find a
welcoming and hospitable city, with a lifestyle that proudly embraces
all that is most appealing about life in the American South.