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Historic Overton Park Shell Goes Silent

October 25, 2004 | Other
The Overton Park Shell played host to its last concert until some necessary repairs could be made. An engineering study found that the shell will need about 550 thousand dollars worth of improvements. It said this historic venue has decayed to the point that it is now a liability for the city.

After this weekend it will be shut down until that money can be raised to fix the structure. It is unclear how long that will take because there is no dedication by the city or any real organized sources of money for this project. But the intent is there as the group 'save our shell' try to organize a fund-raising campaign. They say this structure is a vital part of this city's history and is as important of a landmark like Sun Studios. The shell was the first real venue for a young Elvis Presley. He played his first show on that stage in 1954 and it is widely regarded as the first rock and roll show ever.
Source:Email
Crawfish wrote on October 25, 2004
It would be a tragedy if Overton Park Shell closed. I spoke with a friend who lives in Memphis earlier this week and he said that it is to be shut for 2 years whilst money is raised. I suggest we all e-mail Memphis Mayor just to let him know how much we love it and what a part of our Memphis visits it is. If you have been there you know it is a one off.
tcbflash wrote on October 28, 2004
Just a thought about saving the shell. Why doesn't EPE, Priscilla, Lisa Marie donate money? They could either donate the whole amount or or at least put in a portion to get this landmark renovated. You know they are making a ton of cash from the fans. I don't think 550 thousand dollars is going to hurt them any. I would like to see them give back to the community and to the fans who want to keep this landmark.