January 2004 Open House Special Exhibit
Sunday, January 11, 1– 4 p.m.
Thursday, January 15, noon to 3 p.m.

A Tribute to Elvis Presley

Elvis Presley

Elvis Presley was born on January 8, 1935.  His first recording contract with Sun Records was signed on January 1, 1950.  Therefore, it is entirely fitting and proper to pay tribute to Elvis Presley during January to celebrate his birthday.  We hope this display of memorabilia and facts will be of interest to you and perhaps even increase your knowledge of this remarkable man.  Elvis was selected as one of nine people who made history worldwide, according to a series of books published by Greenhaven Press, Inc., San Diego, California.  The book is titled People Who Made History.  Elvis was a humble man who would have been very pleased at this distinctive recognition.

In addition, there are now college courses and educational lectures about his significant impact on culture, society, and religion.  This exhibit includes some of the lesser known facts about Elvis and his life.  Not all periods of his life or nearly all of his accomplishments are contained in this exhibit; we are simply highlighting what may be more interesting and exhibiting memorabilia which may be new to you.

Elvis was born in East Tupelo, Mississippi on January 8, 1935.  He survived a twin brother, Jesse, who was stillborn.  The Presley family at that time could not afford a doctor or a hospital birth.  His birthday is till celebrated worldwide today.

Elvis came from a deeply religious background, and he never lost his commitment to Christianity.  He favored Gospel music all of his life.  His great uncle, Reverend Gains Munsell (his mother, Gladys’, uncle) actually built the Assembly of God Church in East Tupelo that Elvis attended.  Even though his father Vernon spent some time in a correctional facility for passing a bad check, he earlier served as a Deacon in this church.  Elvis also made some mistakes, but he never lost his love for gospel, and from the time he formed his first band until he died in 1977, Elvis always used gospel groups as his backup music in his bands.

Some of the exhibits are from his Army days.  When Elvis was drafted into the Army in December 1957, he was offered many preferential opportunities to serve in the other services (Navy, Air Force and Marines) as an entertainer for the troops.   Elvis declined these offers and did his service as a regular soldier.  Most of his duty was spent in Bremerhaven, Germany.  Elvis also lost his beloved mother while he was serving in the Army.

When he returned to the USA as an entertainer in March 1960, his public had not forgotten him.  He remained as popular as he had been prior to being away for two years.  Elvis’ popularity never faded, and his music is still sold and is very much in demand today.

Elvis represented the voice of young America in changing our culture and he continues to have fans of all ages.  His generosity, courage and spirit were unlimited and he gave us all a legacy by proving that our dreams can come true.  Elvis taught us that we can do anything we want to do if we are courageous enough and dedicated enough to pursue our dreams with heart and soul.  He taught us that nothing is impossible and that persistence and hard work are rewarded. 

“LIVE FAST, DIE YOUNG, CHANGE THE WORLD”

There can be no doubt that Elvis’ life made a worldwide impact.
Every year, there is an International Tribute for him in Memphis.
Fans from all over the world and of all ages continue to attend.

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