Purchasing Graceland
Elvis Presley, at the tender age of 22, made a monumental decision that would forever mark his legacy; he purchased Graceland in 1957. This expansive property, nestled close to Memphis, Tennessee, spans over 14 acres and required a financial commitment of just over $100,000 from the young star. The acquisition of such a grand residence was driven by Elvis’s desire to provide a luxurious and loving home for his family, including his mother Gladys, father Vernon, and grandmother Minnie Mae.
Graceland was not merely a house; it was a symbol of Elvis’s success and his deep-rooted values of family and home. The estate, with its beautiful mansion and sprawling grounds, became a physical embodiment of the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll’s dreams and aspirations. This purchase was a clear indication of Elvis’s skyrocketing career and his willingness to invest in a future that included not only a place for his music but a sanctuary for his loved ones.
Enter the Memphis Mafia
Over the course of two decades, Graceland evolved into more than just a family residence; it became an iconic gathering place for Elvis and his closest companions, famously known as the “Memphis Mafia.” This elite group of friends and associates found in Graceland a unique haven where they could share in the triumphs and challenges of their illustrious leader’s life. It was here that Elvis’s personal life unfolded, with significant figures like Priscilla Presley leaving their mark on the home’s history.
Graceland’s walls witnessed the highs and lows of Elvis’s journey, making it a place of deep emotional significance. The estate became a sanctuary where memories were made, and legends were born, cementing its status as a legendary site among fans worldwide. Its transformation into a symbol of Elvis’s enduring legacy illustrates the profound impact Graceland had on those who were welcomed into its embrace and the millions who admired the King from afar.
Securing the family’s future
The passing of Elvis in 1977 marked a pivotal moment for Graceland, as control of the estate transferred to Vernon Presley, Elvis’s father. Vernon’s stewardship was short-lived, however, as he passed away just two years later, leading to Priscilla Presley stepping in as executor. Recognizing the potential of Graceland to serve as a lasting tribute to Elvis’s legacy, Priscilla embarked on a visionary project to convert the estate into a museum.
This bold move ensured that the memory of Elvis Presley would continue to inspire and entertain fans for generations to come. Under Priscilla’s guidance, Graceland became more than a home; it evolved into a vibrant cultural landmark that celebrated the life and achievements of one of the most iconic figures in music history. Her efforts safeguarded the legacy of the King, making Graceland a pilgrimage site for fans and preserving the memory of Elvis for his daughter, Lisa Marie, and the wider public.
Open since ’82
In the summer of 1982, Graceland opened its doors to the public, marking a new chapter in its storied history. Elvis Presley’s enduring popularity as the best-selling solo artist of all time drew legions of fans eager to connect with their hero in a more intimate setting. The opening of Graceland as a museum allowed fans from around the world to step into Elvis’s personal space, offering a glimpse into the life of a legend.
The estate quickly emerged as a major tourist destination, rivaling even the White House in terms of visitor numbers. This transformation from private residence to public museum did not diminish the mystique of Graceland; rather, it enhanced its status as a sacred space for fans. Despite its openness, certain areas of the mansion remained unseen by the public, adding an aura of mystery and exclusivity to the Elvis experience.
The iconic billiards room
Graceland’s games area, adorned with a large pool table ready for play, reflects Elvis’s love for leisure and entertainment. Inspired by a painting of an 18th-century billiards room, the space was brought to life by Elvis’s decorator, Bill Eubanks, who sourced over 300 yards of fabric for the project. This material was meticulously applied to the walls and ceiling, transforming the room into a testament to Elvis’s style and the era’s design sensibilities.
The games area became a focal point for relaxation and camaraderie, showcasing Elvis’s desire to create a home that was both luxurious and welcoming. The effort and detail that went into this room’s creation illustrate the importance of personal space to Elvis, providing a retreat where he could unwind and enjoy the company of his friends and family.
The TV room
The television room at Graceland offers a unique insight into Elvis’s personality and his fascination with technology and media. Drawing inspiration from President Lyndon B. Johnson, who famously had three television sets to watch all major networks simultaneously, Elvis decided he required the same setup. This decision underscores Elvis’s desire to stay informed and connected to the broader world, reflecting his status as a cultural icon who transcended the music industry.
The room, notable for its striking yellow, navy, and white color scheme, features a bold aesthetic that includes yellow shag carpet, a deep blue sectional, and innovative lighting solutions. The design choices in the television room mirror Elvis’s flamboyant and forward-thinking nature, creating a space that was both a personal haven and a reflection of his public persona.
Mirrored effects
The decor of the television room at Graceland is a vivid showcase of the era’s bold aesthetics, featuring an electric mix of yellow, navy, and white, accented by a dynamic lightning bolt motif. This space, complete with yellow shag carpeting, a sprawling deep blue sectional sofa, sophisticated track lighting, and sleek chrome arc lamps, epitomizes the vibrant personality of Elvis Presley.
The room’s design is further enhanced by mirrored surfaces in the bar area, cleverly employed to amplify the sense of space and glamour. This room stands as a testament to Elvis’s penchant for distinctive, eye-catching design choices that blend comfort with flair. It encapsulates the spirit of Graceland as a home that was not only a personal sanctuary but also a reflection of the King’s larger-than-life character.
That bright yellow fridge
Graceland’s kitchen is a fascinating reflection of the 1970s interior design ethos, distinguished by its unique use of stained glass light fixtures and a bold color palette that includes lime green appliances and a bright yellow refrigerator. This space, equipped with a remarkable eight-burner stove, exemplifies the era’s flair for combining functionality with distinctive style. The choice of vibrant colors and luxurious materials speaks to Elvis’s desire to create a living space that was both avant-garde and comfortable.
The kitchen, often considered the heart of the home, was no exception in Graceland, serving as a hub of activity and a testament to the Presley family’s love for gathering and sharing meals. This room’s design elements reflect Elvis’s status as an icon who was not only ahead of his time in music but also in his personal style and domestic life.
First microwave in Memphis
The kitchen in Graceland was a marvel of modern technology for its era, showcasing Elvis Presley’s penchant for the latest culinary innovations. It is said that Elvis owned the first microwave in Memphis, a cutting-edge appliance at the time, which he purchased for a sum of over $600—a significant amount that underscores his no-expense-spared approach to kitchen equipment. This investment reflects not only Elvis’s interest in new technology but also his desire to provide the best for his family and guests.
The King’s forward-thinking in kitchen gadgets exemplified his broader attitude towards comfort and convenience in his home life. This microwave, now a quaint reminder of past luxuries, was a symbol of Elvis’s status and his commitment to embracing advancements that could enhance his personal living space. The expense he incurred for this microwave, when adjusted for inflation, highlights the extraordinary lengths Elvis went to ensure Graceland was equipped with the finest amenities of the time.
Food necessities
Elvis’s culinary tastes were as unique and bold as his personality and music, with his preference for banana, bacon, and peanut butter sandwiches becoming the stuff of legend. These sandwiches, a peculiar yet delicious combination, were a staple in the Graceland kitchen, prepared with care for the King himself. Beyond this quirky favorite, Elvis’s shopping list included items that needed to be available around the clock, such as wieners and sauerkraut, underscoring his eclectic and specific tastes.
This insistence on having such unique items readily available speaks volumes about Elvis’s lifestyle and the importance of food in his daily life. The Graceland kitchen, therefore, was not just a place for meal preparation; it was the heart of the home where culinary experiments and late-night snacks reflected Elvis’s personal tastes and indulgences. These dietary preferences added another layer to the King’s larger-than-life persona, blending his public image with private indulgences.
Stayin’ the same
The décor of the Graceland lounge remained a testament to Elvis’s personal style and the aesthetics of the era, with only minor changes from 1957 until the mid-1970s—except for a festive twist. During the Christmas season, Elvis would swap out the standard blue drapes for red ones, introducing a seasonal transformation that has been preserved by the estate’s executors to this day. This tradition underscores Elvis’s love for the holiday season and his inclination towards personal touches that made Graceland a home.
It reflects how the King’s personal preferences influenced the ambiance of his living space, making it a dynamic and reflective environment of his tastes and moods. The continuation of this custom by the executors not only honors Elvis’s memory but also connects visitors to his personal life and festive spirit, making the holiday season at Graceland a special pilgrimage for fans.
Upping the décor game
In 1974, Elvis decided to revamp the aesthetic of his living room, choosing a dramatic and luxurious French Provencal furniture style. This redesign featured an opulent combination of red carpet, red velvet furniture, and red satin draperies, marking a significant departure from the previous décor. This choice of bold colors and plush materials was a reflection of Elvis’s flamboyant taste and desire to make a statement with his home’s design.
The room’s transformation into a vibrant space exemplified the King’s larger-than-life persona and his willingness to embrace change and opulence in his personal surroundings. However, before opening Graceland to the public, the executors chose to revert to the room’s classic look, most familiar to fans and reflective of Elvis’s life at the estate. This decision was made to preserve the authenticity of Elvis’s lived experience at Graceland, allowing visitors to step back in time and see the home as Elvis did for the majority of his time there.
The stunning colored glass
The colored-glass panels that separate the living room from the music area are among the most iconic features of Graceland, beloved by Elvis fans for their exquisite peacock design. This design choice not only adds to the aesthetic beauty of Graceland but also carries deeper symbolic meaning, as peacocks are associated with immortality in Christianity—a fitting motif for the home of a music legend whose legacy endures.
Crafted in 1974 by Memphis’ Laukhuff Stained Glass, these panels, along with other stained-glass installations throughout the estate, reflect Elvis’s love for intricate and meaningful artistry. The incorporation of such detailed work into the fabric of Graceland speaks to Elvis’s attention to detail and his desire to create a living space that was both visually stunning and symbolically rich. These pieces not only enhance the beauty of Graceland but also serve as a testament to Elvis’s artistic sensibilities and his quest for enduring beauty.
Passion for animals
Elvis’s passion for animals is evident throughout Graceland, most notably in the expansive gardens where he built a large barn to house his numerous horses. This addition to the estate underscores Elvis’s deep love for animals and his desire to create a sanctuary not just for himself but for his beloved pets. Over the years, Elvis also welcomed a variety of dogs into his home, including breeds such as Chow Chows, Great Danes, and a Basset Hound, reflecting his wide-ranging affection for animals.
This aspect of Elvis’s life reveals a softer, more personal side to the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll, showcasing his compassion and the joy he found in the companionship of animals. The presence of these animals at Graceland added to the home’s warmth and vitality, making it a true family residence filled with love and care for every creature under its roof.
He even had a chimp
Among the array of pets that called Graceland home, Scatter, a chimpanzee originally owned by local TV personality Captain Bill Killebrew, stands out as the most unique. Elvis’s decision to integrate Scatter into his daily life, allowing the chimp to roam freely around the estate and participate in social gatherings, highlights the King’s playful and unconventional nature. Dressed in various costumes and initially a source of amusement for Elvis and his entourage, Scatter’s antics are legendary.
However, recognizing the need for boundaries, Elvis eventually arranged for Scatter to have his own quarters within Graceland. This move illustrates Elvis’s responsible approach to pet ownership and his adaptability in managing the challenges of living with such an unconventional pet. Scatter’s presence at Graceland adds an intriguing chapter to the estate’s history, showcasing Elvis’s willingness to embrace the unconventional.
The Jungle Room
The Jungle Room, known to Elvis as “the den,” is perhaps the most famous room within Graceland, gaining its nickname from a reporter after the estate was opened to the public as a museum. This room, with its exotic décor and lush furnishings, reflects Elvis’s unique taste and the flamboyant aesthetic that characterized much of his personal and professional life. The Jungle Room served as a retreat for Elvis, a place where he could relax and find inspiration away from the demands of his career.
Its distinctive style, complete with tropical plants, wooden furniture, and green shag carpet, transports visitors to an entirely different world, encapsulating Elvis’s love for thematic and immersive environments. The enduring fascination with the Jungle Room among fans and visitors underscores its significance as a key aspect of Graceland’s allure, symbolizing the eclectic and adventurous spirit of the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll.
Center of the home
The Jungle Room at Graceland, as detailed by Rolling Stone’s Jordan Runtagh, emerged as a distinctive and deeply personal space for Elvis Presley, reflecting his complex persona and unique taste. Runtagh vividly captures the essence of the room, describing it as a place where Elvis indulged in his morning routines, entertained close friends, and occasionally displayed his penchant for dramatic gestures, such as shooting his television set with a revolver. The décor, marked by its “breathtakingly garish” and “ostentatious kitsch,” epitomized the extravagance and flamboyance associated with Elvis.
This setting, with its artificial waterfall and eclectic mix of furnishings, served as a backdrop to the King’s life, encapsulating his spirit and the vibrant atmosphere of Graceland. It was in this room that Elvis’s larger-than-life character was most visible, blending his love for the extraordinary with his need for personal expression. The Jungle Room thus stands as a testament to Elvis’s refusal to conform to conventional tastes, offering a glimpse into the whimsical world he created for himself and his inner circle.
Love the green shag
Indeed, the Jungle Room was more than just a space within Graceland; it was a vivid representation of Elvis Presley’s singular personality and aesthetic sensibilities. Jordan Runtagh’s reflections suggest that the room’s unconventional beauty—with its green shag carpeting, faux animal furs, and synthetic plants—mirrored Elvis’s own eccentricities and dynamic presence. The choice of decor in this room, while initially surprising to some, was seen as entirely fitting for a figure as iconic and multifaceted as Elvis.
His ability to blend humor, moodiness, and boldness into his personal and professional life was reflected in every detail of the Jungle Room. This space was not just a physical location but a symbol of Elvis’s approach to life: fearless, playful, and always unforgettable. It captured the essence of his spirit, acting as a three-dimensional portrait of the man behind the music, where his quirks and passions were on full display.
Taking time to serve
When Elvis first took residence at Graceland in 1957, the area later known as the Jungle Room was an unassuming, uncovered terrace. His move into Graceland was shortly followed by a significant life event—his conscription into the U.S. military, drawing massive media attention. Serving two years in Germany, this period was a hiatus from his burgeoning music career and the beginning of a new chapter upon his return to America in 1960.
This interruption not only marked a pivotal point in Elvis’s life but also delayed his plans for Graceland. Upon his return, with renewed vigor and vision, Elvis was poised to embark on the transformation of Graceland, infusing it with his personal style and converting a simple terrace into the legendary Jungle Room. This transition from a basic terrace to a hallmark of Elvis’s legacy at Graceland underscores the evolution of both the estate and Elvis’s life during and after his military service.
Not quite perfect…
Elvis’s return from military service ignited a fervor for remodeling Graceland, with the nascent Jungle Room taking shape amidst his broad vision for the estate. Initially, the room featured heavy curtains that shrouded it in perpetual darkness, setting the stage for a more dramatic transformation. However, this early iteration fell short of Elvis’s expectations, lacking the thematic coherence and distinctive flair he envisioned.
This phase of the room’s evolution highlights Elvis’s hands-on approach to the customization of his living space, driven by a desire to see his personal tastes and preferences reflected throughout Graceland. The initial design choices, though not fully aligned with his ultimate vision, laid the groundwork for the iconic Jungle Room, illustrating Elvis’s process of iterative refinement and personalization of his home.
Basic furniture
The transformation of the Jungle Room from a basic layout to its final iconic state involved a significant departure from its initial furnishings, which were notably simplistic and utilitarian. Marty Lacker’s recollections in Alanna Nash’s book “Elvis and the Memphis Mafia” paint a picture of a room in transition, equipped with nondescript furniture that bore little resemblance to the vibrant theme it would later embrace.
This stark contrast between the room’s humble beginnings and its ultimate aesthetic illustrates Elvis’s evolving taste and his father Vernon’s initial attempts to furnish the space practically. The transition from these basic elements to the room’s final, themed décor underscores the dynamic changes that Graceland underwent under Elvis’s direction, reflecting his journey from a rising star to a global icon with the resources to bring his visionary ideas to life.
The magic of color TV
The addition of a color TV to the Jungle Room underscored the luxury and modernity that Elvis afforded his residence, despite the unconventional treatment of such expensive appliances. Elvis’s habit of shooting the television set, especially during appearances by Robert Goulet, as recounted by those close to him, illustrates his whimsical and impulsive nature.
This act, while seemingly reckless, was emblematic of Elvis’s larger-than-life persona and his ability to indulge in extravagant gestures, secure in the knowledge that he could easily replace the items damaged in moments of disdain or displeasure. Vernon’s pragmatic observation that Elvis could always afford new replacements speaks to the financial security that Elvis’s success had brought him, allowing for a lifestyle where whims could be acted upon without concern for the consequences.
Lovely, but impractical
The inclusion of a waterfall in the Jungle Room was a bold design choice that, while visually stunning, proved to be impractical. Priscilla’s recollection of the waterfall’s tendency to flood the room highlights the challenges of integrating such ambitious features into a home. This ambitious attempt to bring a touch of the exotic indoors exemplified Elvis’s desire to push the boundaries of traditional home decor, seeking to create an environment that was as unique as his public persona.
The waterfall’s malfunctioning, however, revealed the complexities and pitfalls of custom home modifications, particularly when the execution fails to meet the visionary’s expectations. The issues with the waterfall, including the significant flooding it caused, underscore the balance between aesthetic ambition and practicality, a theme that resonated throughout many of Elvis’s personal and professional endeavors.
More trouble than it’s worth
The complications surrounding the installation of the waterfall, as lamented by Lacker and evidenced by the disastrous plumbing work, further illustrate the challenges of realizing Elvis’s grandiose visions for Graceland. The decision to employ a less-than-expert plumber led to unintended consequences, including a severe leakage problem that not only compromised the integrity of the Jungle Room but also posed a risk to the entire estate during the 1971 Christmas celebration.
This incident, requiring Vernon to take emergency action to prevent a fire, underscores the unpredictability and hazards of incorporating elaborate features into the home without adequate oversight. It serves as a cautionary tale of ambition clashing with reality, highlighting the importance of expertise and quality craftsmanship in bringing visionary designs to fruition. This episode in the history of the Jungle Room not only reflects the complexities behind the scenes of Graceland’s iconic spaces but also the perseverance and commitment to Elvis’s vision, even in the face of practical challenges.
Las Vegas Versailles
In the 1970s, the Jungle Room underwent further transformations, becoming an even more extravagant reflection of Elvis Presley’s unique aesthetic. Jordan Runtagh’s description paints a vivid picture of a room draped in the opulence reminiscent of a Las Vegas interpretation of Versailles. The choice to adorn antebellum pillars, balustrades, and doorways with heavy red velvet fabric, accented with gold tassels, speaks volumes about Elvis’s love for dramatic and luxurious décor.
The floor, cluttered with white fur rugs, robust caryatids, and lamps embellished with faux rubies and sequins, created an ambiance of extravagant kitsch. This design choice underscored Elvis’s desire to create a living space that was not just a home but a showcase of his personal taste and flamboyance. The Jungle Room, with each alteration, became a more pronounced statement of Elvis’s identity, blending his public persona with his private living environment in a way that was both theatrical and intimate.
Always overdone
Elvis Presley’s distinctive taste in décor was a source of amusement among his friends, a fact that underscores the uniqueness of his personal style. The Memphis Mafia, a close-knit group of Elvis’s friends and associates, often joked about the eclectic and extravagant choices that defined the Jungle Room’s aesthetic. Alan Fortas and Lamar Fike, members of this inner circle, made light of Elvis’s penchant for the overdone and unconventional, highlighting how his preferences diverged sharply from mainstream tastes. These comments, far from being critical, shed light on the playful dynamics within Elvis’s social group and his willingness to embrace styles that others might reject.
This acceptance and celebration of what was considered “overdone” or “abnormal” by others were emblematic of Elvis’s broader approach to life and art, where excess and flamboyance were not just accepted but revered. His friends’ observations offer a glimpse into the atmosphere of Graceland, where Elvis’s unique vision was both a source of entertainment and a reflection of his bold, uninhibited spirit.
The tiki transformation
The transformation of the Jungle Room into a space reminiscent of a tiki bar was a nod to Elvis Presley’s affection for Hawaii and its culture. The dark-wood furniture and thematic decorations were efforts to capture the essence of the tropical paradise that Elvis adored, bringing a piece of it into his Tennessee home. This choice might also have been influenced by Elvis’s playful desire to provoke a reaction from his father, Vernon Presley, whose conservative tastes were at odds with Elvis’s more flamboyant preferences.
The anecdote about Vernon’s reaction to seeing what he deemed the “ugliest furniture” serves as a humorous insight into the dynamic between Elvis and his father. It suggests that Elvis was not only fully aware of how his tastes differed from the conventional but also that he took a certain delight in these differences. This story, whether apocryphal or not, illustrates the complexity of Elvis’s character, revealing a man who was both deeply individualistic and keenly aware of the impact of his choices on those around him.
The King had self-awareness
The story of Vernon Presley’s comments on furniture and Elvis’s enthusiastic response offers a window into the playful and defiant aspects of Elvis’s personality. This interaction, as recounted by Elvis’s friends, highlights his awareness of his own unconventional tastes and his embrace of them despite—or perhaps because of—their divergence from mainstream aesthetics.
This moment encapsulates the essence of Elvis’s approach to personal style and home décor: a conscious choice to stand out, to be true to his own vision regardless of others’ opinions. The anecdote serves as a testament to Elvis’s confidence in his identity and his willingness to push boundaries, both musically and in his personal life. It reflects a man who was not only a cultural icon but also an individual unafraid to express his uniqueness through his living environment.
Not a bad studio
The Jungle Room’s conversion into a temporary recording studio in 1976 is a testament to its versatility and the central role it played in Elvis’s life and work. The decision to record in this uniquely designed space, utilizing its thick carpets for sound absorption, illustrates Elvis’s innovative approach to music production. The albums “From Elvis Presley Boulevard, Memphis, Tennessee” and “Moody Blue” stand as enduring legacies of the creativity that flowed within Graceland’s walls.
This period of Elvis’s career, marked by intimate sessions in the comfort of his own home, offers a glimpse into his artistic process and the personal significance of Graceland as a creative sanctuary. The Jungle Room, with its distinctive décor and acoustical properties, thus became the birthplace of some of Elvis’s final contributions to music, highlighting the profound connection between his personal environment and his musical legacy.
The Meditation Garden
The Meditation Garden at Graceland, as described by Jordan Runtagh, represents a tranquil and reflective space that held great personal significance for Elvis Presley. This secluded area, adorned with plants, fountains, and classical architectural elements, provided a serene retreat for contemplation during Elvis’s life. In death, it became his final resting place, adding a layer of sacredness to the garden. The decision to create such a space reflects Elvis’s need for solitude and reflection amid the demands of his public life.
The Meditation Garden, with its peaceful ambiance and symbolic importance, serves as a testament to the multifaceted nature of Elvis’s personality, marrying his love for grandeur with a deep need for personal sanctuary. It stands as a poignant reminder of the King’s legacy, offering fans and visitors a place to pay their respects and reflect on the life and contributions of one of music’s most iconic figures.
Monuments to the King
The final resting place of Elvis Presley and his family members in the Meditation Garden at Graceland adds a deeply personal and historical dimension to the estate. The decision to inter Elvis, along with his mother Gladys, father Vernon, and grandmother Minnie Mae, in this serene garden underscores the Presley family’s desire to keep their loved ones close. The inclusion of a monument to Elvis’s twin brother, Jesse, who was stillborn, further personalizes this sacred space, reflecting the family’s tragedies and bonds.
The story of Elvis’s initial burial at Forest Hill Cemetery and the subsequent decision to move the remains to Graceland following a grave-robbing attempt illustrates the challenges his family faced in protecting his legacy. This transition not only ensured the security of the Presley family’s final resting places but also symbolized a return to the sanctuary of Graceland, reinforcing the estate’s status as a permanent home and memorial for Elvis and his loved ones.
A foiled plan
The attempted theft of Elvis Presley’s remains shortly after his burial was a disturbing event that ultimately led to their relocation to Graceland. This unsettling incident, characterized by a poorly conceived plot by three men, exposed vulnerabilities in the security of Elvis’s initial resting place and prompted a reevaluation of how best to honor and protect his legacy. The decision to move Elvis and Gladys’s remains to Graceland was driven by a desire to safeguard them from potential threats and to provide a dignified and secure resting place within the grounds of Elvis’s beloved home.
This move not only addressed practical concerns regarding security but also resonated with symbolic significance, bringing Elvis back to the place where he had lived, created, and found solace. The Meditation Garden, with its tranquility and beauty, serves as a fitting tribute to the life and legacy of the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll, offering a place of reflection and homage for fans and visitors from around the world.
The fifth addition
The Meditation Garden at Graceland, a place of peace and reflection, became the final resting place for a fifth member of the Presley family in 2020, marking a somber addition to the sanctuary. Benjamin Keough, the grandson of Elvis Presley, tragically passed away at the young age of 27, deepening the garden’s significance to the Presley family and their fans. His final resting place, positioned opposite his legendary grandfather, added a new layer of poignancy to the site.
Visitors to Graceland are given the opportunity to walk through the Meditation Garden, where they can pay their respects to Benjamin alongside other members of the Presley family. This act of remembrance connects fans from around the world with the personal histories of the family, bridging the gap between the public’s admiration for Elvis’s professional legacy and the private grief of the family. The inclusion of Benjamin in the Meditation Garden underscores the space’s role as a sacred family enclave within the larger public spectacle of Graceland.
Accessible today
Graceland offers visitors a glimpse into the life of Elvis Presley, with the first floor of the mansion open for tours that showcase the opulence and personal taste of the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll. However, the second floor of the house, containing the personal bedrooms of Elvis and his daughter Lisa Marie, remains shrouded in mystery, as it is not accessible to the public. This area of the home is preserved as a private sanctuary, much like it was during Elvis’s lifetime, and serves as a testament to the family’s desire to maintain a portion of their lives away from the public eye.
The exclusivity of the second floor has fueled widespread speculation and curiosity among fans and historians alike, becoming a focal point for myths and legends about the Presley family’s private moments. This deliberate preservation of privacy helps maintain the mystique of Graceland, while also respecting the personal memories and experiences of the Presley family. The second floor’s inaccessibility underscores the balance Graceland strives to maintain between public homage to Elvis’s legacy and the private sanctity of his family’s living spaces.
Strictly off-limits
The enigmatic second floor of Graceland, preserved just as it was at the time of Elvis’s death, has captivated the imagination of fans and the media alike, with access strictly limited to a select few. Rumors about the untouched nature of Elvis’s personal quarters have circulated for years, adding to the mystique of the area. Lisa Marie, Priscilla, and the curator of the estate are among the very few who have been granted access, emphasizing the importance of this space to the Presley family’s legacy.
The restriction of access, even to high-profile individuals such as sitting U.S. presidents, highlights the family’s commitment to preserving the authenticity and privacy of Elvis’s personal refuge. Nicolas Cage, due to his brief marriage to Lisa Marie, stands as a notable exception, having been one of the rare individuals outside the immediate family to witness the second floor’s preserved state. This careful guardianship of the space serves as a testament to the family’s dedication to maintaining Elvis’s legacy in a manner that honors his memory and personal wishes.
In the same condition
In April 2020, fans of Elvis Presley were given a rare insight into the elusive second floor of Graceland, thanks to a live tour conducted by Angie Marchese, the director of archives at Graceland. This virtual event provided tantalizing details about Elvis’s private sanctuary, which has long been the subject of fascination and speculation. Marchese’s comments during the tour reinforced the sense of timelessness that pervades the second floor, suggesting that it has been preserved as if Elvis himself might return at any moment.
This unique approach to preservation allows fans a glimpse into the personal side of Elvis’s life, bridging the gap between his public persona and private experiences. The decision to share these details in a live tour underscores Graceland’s evolving relationship with fans, offering new ways to connect with the legacy of Elvis Presley while still respecting the sanctity of his private quarters.
Lisa Marie’s wishes
Angie Marchese’s role in maintaining the second floor of Graceland involves a meticulous approach to preservation, ensuring that every detail, from the record on the player to the placement of a Styrofoam cup, remains exactly as Elvis left it. This dedication to authenticity provides a tangible connection to Elvis’s last moments in his home, offering a poignant glimpse into his daily life.
The preservation efforts, guided by Lisa Marie’s wishes, highlight the deep respect and reverence held for Elvis’s memory, ensuring that the space remains undisturbed and perfectly preserved. Marchese’s comments reveal the careful balance between preserving the past and accommodating the future, showcasing Graceland’s commitment to maintaining Elvis’s legacy as a living, breathing entity that continues to engage and inspire fans across generations.
Holding onto the key
Lisa Marie Presley’s relationship with Graceland, particularly the second floor, offers a deeply personal perspective on the significance of the estate as a family home. Her remarks during an appearance on the British morning show “Lorraine” convey a sense of safety and sanctity associated with her father’s and her own private quarters. The key to the upstairs, which she keeps with her, symbolizes her personal connection to and guardianship over this intimate aspect of her family’s history.
Lisa Marie’s ability to find peace and solace in this secluded part of Graceland underscores the enduring emotional and familial bonds that link the Presleys to their ancestral home. Her practice of retreating to the second floor for privacy and reflection demonstrates the ongoing relevance of Graceland as a place of sanctuary and memory for the Presley family, preserving a direct and personal link to Elvis’s legacy.
One special sanctuary
The second floor of Graceland, described by Lisa Marie Presley as a sanctuary for herself and her father, remains a deeply personal space that is integral to the Presley family’s history and legacy. Her description of the second floor as a place of unparalleled safety and calm offers insight into the profound emotional significance Graceland holds for her. Lisa Marie’s stewardship of this private area, along with her decision to occasionally reside there, emphasizes the enduring connection between the Presley family and their iconic home.
This special area, forever reserved for the Presleys, serves as a testament to the lasting impact of Elvis’s legacy on his family and the preservation of their personal memories within the walls of Graceland. The care taken to maintain the second floor as a private family sanctuary ensures that the spirit of Elvis Presley continues to resonate throughout Graceland, safeguarding a piece of the Presley family’s heart for generations to come.
