Happy Anniversary Graceland

[presley31]

June 7th ,2008 marked the 26th anniversary of Graceland being open to the public. On that day in 1982, Priscilla Presley, widow of Elvis, opened the Graceland mansion to the public. Graceland management commissioned Elvis' long-time friend, Janelle McComb, to create a poem for a visitor's guide brochure. The idea was to think of Graceland Mansion as a living entity and give it a voice to express its memories of life with Elvis and his family and to express the excitement of having the home open to the public.

Memories of Graceland Mansion

I've stood aloft on this stately hill
for lo, these many years.
I've known the great joys of life
and wept its saddest tears.
I've seen the leaves turn umber
then bow to winter's snow.
I've basked in the lights of Christmas
and my pride would always show.
I've shared the kiss of a mother's love
and the paternal pride of a dad.
I've known the joy of bride and child;
thank God for the memories I've had.
My owner redefined musical history
with his unique style and voice.
I saw accolades heaped upon him;
he was clearly our nation's choice.
I've seen his fans come up the hill
and stand at windswept graves.
I, too would cry along with them;
I'd tire of being brave.
Today my columns seem more erect;
my pride shows within these walls.
My life has taken on new meaning;
his friends have come to call.
I knew that one day you would come;
I've waited and counted the minutes.
Even though my owner is away just now,
his heart is still here within it!

©1982, Janelle McComb

26 years later and Elvis' legacy continues to become a bigger phenomenon much in part due to Graceland being open to the public. We look forward to many more anniversaries for the Graceland mansion! Elvis Unlimited wishes to thank Priscilla Presley, Lisa Marie Presley, Jack Soden and the entire staff of EPE who work so hard at Graceland. We appreciate you!

http://www.elvisunlimited.com/