26-JUN-2009
072: Memphis
We finished the afternoon at the Peabody Hotel for the traditional, daily, 5pm March of the Ducks. The ducks drew a heck of a crowd. They march each evening to the elevator that they ride to where they live in the penthouse on the roof of the Peabody. Huge crowd; you'd have thought the Rolling Stones were playing for free in the lobby or something.
26-JUN-2009
073: Memphis
Ducks swimming in endless circles in the Peabody fountain.
26-JUN-2009
075: Memphis
Not intimidated at all by encroaching crowds and throngs of children, the march to the elevator is on. It was all over in a few minutes, and Addison and I marched outselves back to our own "penthouse" quarters.
26-JUN-2009
076: Memphis
We "did" Beale Street in the evening. It was sort of underwhelming. Reminded us a lot of a land-locked Fisherman's Wharf type of scene, intensely crowded, and over-populated by junky souvenir shops and eating places. The food was way over-rated, and the performers in most of the clubs were Elvis impersonators (some were VERY talented!) Nevertheless, it was a great time. Way too many pan-handlers, though! Wow, that part was over-whelming. All in all, glad we didn't miss it. Also glad we didn't spend too much of our time there.
26-JUN-2009
077: Memphis
The place NOT to order ribs (microwaved). (But the Elvis impersonator did a great show!)
26-JUN-2009
078: Memphis
This guy was so good that Addison first thought he was done by 'animatronics' like at Disney.
26-JUN-2009
080: Memphis
Great signage on Beale Street.
26-JUN-2009
079: Memphis
My favorite attraction! The Gibson guitar factory.
26-JUN-2009
081: Memphis
And still more Beale Street. We decided it reminded us of a land-locked version of Fisherman's Wharf. All the same people and all the trinket hawkers. Still...good music to be heard here and there.
Leaving Memphis at mid day tomorrow.
27-JUN-2009
082: Memphis
Didn't leave town before we took the grande tour of Gibson. This place was something else! Saw how they put together all those gorgeous Les Pauls and hollowbodies. Even got to play a few a little bit in the gift shop.
26-JUN-2009
083: Clarksdale, MS
The intersection of US Highways 61 and 49 is the legendary spot where Tommy Johnson was allegedly met by the Devil who tuned his guitar for him in exchange for his soul, allowing Tommy to play any song he wanted. Tommy went on to become a well-known blues musician in the delta region.
Here is Addison standing at the crossroad, which is now inside the town of Clarksdale. No transactions were made at this time.