Back in 2005, The Peabody asked for memories from Memphians and Mid-Southerners that would illustrate the landmark’s 138-year-old history. Thanks to those responses, as well as input from individuals involved in the hotel’s renovation, you can read all about its fascinating past in The Peabody: A History of the South’s Grand Hotel.
Reminisces come from Jack Belz, who saved the hotel from the wrecking ball in 1975; Silas Harris, a 50-year employee who trained under original Duckmaster Edward Pembroke; Ellen Fossey McGowen of Somerville who, in the 1920s, before the ducks-in-the-lobby-era, lifted a baby alligator from the lobby pool and handed it to her horrified mother; and others with entertaining tales.
The 212-page tome can be purchased for $49.95 at the hotel’s Deli and Desserts or the Corner Bar. You can also order it online at PeabodyMemphis.com or by calling 901-529-3642. And on Monday, July 23, the book can be found at several local bookstores, including Davis-Kidd Booksellers and Bookstar, Burke’s Book Store, and Borders.