99% Invisible A Walking Tour with Mr. Memphis
8 snips
Apr 4, 2025 
Chris Berube, a passionate producer known for his insights into cities, takes listeners on an electrifying tour of Memphis. Discover the quirks of local culture, from duck parades at the Peabody Hotel to the significance of manhole covers. Berube shares tales of streets named after dates and the statue of Ramesses at the University of Memphis, while reflecting on urban nostalgia and change. The conversation emphasizes Memphis as a vibrant tapestry of history and community, packed with unforgettable memories and landmarks.
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Memphis Manhole Covers
- Memphis has many different manhole covers, each reflecting a unique history.
- These covers represent different local telecom companies from the past, showcasing a time before consolidation.
November 6th, 1934 Street
- Memphis renamed an alley "November 6th, 1934 Street" to commemorate joining TVA power.
- This might be the only street named after a full date.
Beale Street Renaming
- Beale Street was briefly renamed Beale Avenue in the 1950s due to citywide street name changes.
- After public outcry, especially from Danny Thomas, it was changed back to Beale Street.
