Before we take you to Louisiana, just a word about the Great Mississippi Balloon Race. As we were leaving Natchez this morning, the winds were suddenly propitious for the ballooners. We were able to see them wafting away, but have no idea how on earth one races those things.
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Antebellum Natchez
Natchez was the first civilized settlement on the Mississippi – and when they say that, this time they are actually counting the Indians. It’s been around for a long time, and before the War (you should already know to which war I am referring), eleven of the nation’s twenty richest men lived here. Cotton wasContinue reading “Antebellum Natchez”
Travelling down Highway 61
The Blues Highway from Clarksdale down to Natchez is just chock full of treats. We just naturally gravitated to the ones you’ll see here, but there were lots more things you could see if you had the time.
The Delta Blues
On our way to Clarksdale, Mississippi, the home of the Blues, we had a real moment, passing over Choctaw Ridge. You know the place, where Billie Joe MacAllister jumped off the Tallahatchie Bridge. Going over the Tallahatchie River was a real thrill. Who has thought of Bobbie Gentry in all these years?
Two Men of Mississippi
We are in Oxford, Mississippi, home to the University of Mississippi – Ole Miss – and a real center of the southern literary world. This town was home to William Faulkner, whose work tells the story of the south with a very special genius.
The Land of the King
In Graceland, in Graceland I’m going to Graceland For reasons I cannot explain There’s some part of me wants to see Graceland And I may be advised to defend Every love, every ending Or maybe there’s no obligations now Maybe I’ve a reason to believe We all will be received In Graceland
It all started here
If you love the blues, then you love the sound of Memphis. But if you are still celebrating the birth of rock and roll, then this is sacred ground.
Cruising down the Music Highway
Yes, we made the fabled drive from Nashville to Memphis today, as many pilgrims before us have – with “Graceland” at full volume. More on Memphis tomorrow, but for now, here’s a sidebar about a stop on the way, Leaving Middle Tennessee, we are now in West Tennessee, a whole different kettle of barbecue and music,Continue reading “Cruising down the Music Highway”
Grand Ole Nashville
What a day in Music City! We started out at the Mother Church of country western music, Ryman Auditorium. It was originally an actual church, and then became the home of the Grand Ole Opry for 40 years. The Opry has moved – more on that later – but many performers still use the auditorium,Continue reading “Grand Ole Nashville”
Second sons, second chances, second husband
What would that English classic, Tom Brown’s School Days, have to do with the Cumberland Plateau of Tennessee?