Memories of Elvis
was founded in 1978 by Carol J. (Banbury) Light, a photographer from Effingham,
Illinois, who had photographed Elvis in the 70’s. The opening of the store was
the fulfillment of Carol’s dream to open a shop where she could sell her
photographs of Elvis.
The neighborhood shopping center across from Graceland
included a flower shop, a dentist office, an optometrist, a restaurant, laundromat, and a vacuum cleaner store. It was typical of small shopping areas
in residential areas of Memphis at that time.
During the first
few months, even years, following Elvis’ death, several privately-owned stores
opened as space became available in the center.
Graceland
was not open to
the public in those days, but daily visitation to Meditation Gardens was
permitted. Every day and throughout the night people continued to come to
Graceland. They seemed compelled to visit; if they weren’t fans
when they arrived, most likely they were when they left. If the gates were
closed, visitors would stay and visit with the guards, who were more than eager
to tell as many stories about Elvis as they could recall. It was as if time
stood still during those first few years. Many of the staff who had worked for
Elvis still remained at
Graceland. Some
of the family and staff who had lived on the grounds at the time of Elvis’ death
continued to call Graceland their home.
Virtually the only merchandise available was residual concert memorabilia. Carol began to listen to the fans and to provide for them the collectibles they desired. The fascination with Elvis was inexhaustible, the excitement spreading to people everywhere. The media frequently broadcasted to the world the constant dedication of the fans.
In 1982 Elvis Presley Enterprises decided to open the house to the public. Eventually the estate acquired the property where the gift shops were located; and in 1987 the independently owned stores began to close. This change took place following an unprecedented August, commemorating the 10th Anniversary of the death of Elvis Presley.
Graceland Crossing was being constructed at that time; and, fortunately, Memories of Elvis was able to obtain a lease in the newly-constructed shopping center just north of the original location, which is where the shop remains today.
Graceland Crossing became an entity of its own. Several stores opened and worked together to make the new shopping center a place for the fans to congregate and enjoy themselves. Special events were regularly scheduled with continuous entertainment provided for the fans and customers during Elvis Tribute Week.
The 20th Anniversary was again a record week in attendance. It seemed as though the whole world decided to come to Memphis. The staff at the store, though overwhelmed, remained faithful as they gave excellent service to the fans.
The shop continued to plan for each subsequent Tribute Week. In 2002, on the 25th Anniversary, thousands of fans and tourists again flocked to Graceland. And so it went….on and on.
Sadly, May 31, 2005, we received a letter from Elvis Presley Enterprises stating that they would not renew our lease. It was heartbreaking news for all of us here at Memories of Elvis. After more than 27 years, we found ourselves in a life-changing situation. Our only explanation from EPE was that they no longer wanted to rent to competitors.
While
we feel that we have been a great asset to the legacy of Elvis and to this
phenomenal industry, we were unable to negotiate a new contract.
We are most grateful to the fans and visitors who have faithfully supported our store. We thank you all for your loyalty and your continued patronage.
Our aim is to remain true to the memory of Elvis Presley and to continue to serve all of you, our friends and customers, in the near future.
