History of Memphis Parks, & YES they started at the River

As Richard J. Alley wrote for the Commercial Appeal,

When Memphis was established in 1819, parks and open spaces were as much a part of the vision as the Mississippi River, commerce and cotton. With a total of 36 acres decreed by the founders (the earliest being Court Square, Market Square, Exchange Square, Auction Square and the promenade along the bluff), Memphis established itself as a city on the cutting edge of culture, recreation and meeting the needs of the community."

Click HERE for the article, a concise, fascinating outline of Memphis Park history.

Today, with activists and leaders intent on expanding and utilizing existing green space as an amenity to attract people and new jobs to Memphis, our parks and public spaces provide the opportunity.