Saturday, June 30, 2018

The Withers Collection Museum and Gallery



In my first real outing since my concussion, The Daughter and I chose one of the hottest days of the summer so far (95F with a heat index of 108) to go walking around downtown. We both like the heat, so that wasn't a problem, but we did get thirsty. Very thirsty.

The Withers Collection Museum and Gallery is run by the daughter of Ernest C. Withers, who was a local Civil Rights era icon. He was born in Memphis in 1922. Active for 60 years as a photographer, he chronicled important moments in music, sports, and civil rights. He died in Memphis in 2007 at the age of 85. The museum opened in 2011 on Beale Street and is definitely worth going through. The photographs are nicely displayed with informative descriptions, and they are an important part of Memphis history.

Here's a 3-minute introductory video:



You can see some of the photographs at the museum website.

10 comments:

  1. That was a great little video and I think you picked a good place to visit on your first outing. We're into the heat now too! Glad you enjoy it. :) Hugs-Erika

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    1. I'd seen some of his work at the Brooks Museum here, but I'd never been to this dedicated museum. It was a treat :)

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  2. I'm glad you weren't overcome by heat exhaustion. I would have been. Your temps sound like mine. I think you chose a GREAT place to visit on your first outing after the concussion. I was SO impressed by Withers and his photos. That one with Nixon was priceless! I was impressed with the video, too. Thanks for sharing this outing and the incredible works of Ernest Williams.

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    1. We had to stop on the way home and get water! I actually drank a bottle of water lol, but it couldn't be helped. So thirsty!

      There was a story about how he developed his photos in the bathroom when he first started and only later had a studio. Fascinating!

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  3. Somebody has to like the heat, I suppose. I am not one of them--LOL! Northern girl. ;) Looks like a wonderful and informative museum. I just watched 1968--a special they made about ten years ago with Tom Brokow (Netflix DVD). Seems even more relevant now than in 2008 when it was made.

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    1. I'm glad this photographer is becoming more well-known and better-appreciated here now. He was in a position to get some historic photos!

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  4. Local museums are really interesting and give you a special glimpse into the past. Getting out for some fun for the first time in a while can kind of feel like rebirth.

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    1. I was surprised out how easily I settled into just not getting out. I do tend to be a homebody, but I don't need to become a recluse.

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  5. Sounds like you had the perfect time with your daughter! The museum looks so interesting, I'm pleased to hear that you are getting out and about again 😁. Take care and Happy Sunday! J 😊 x

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    1. It was sweet of her to keep encouraging me to get out :) I enjoyed it so!

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