The AHTC Goes to Memphis! Part I

From June 21^st through June 25^th, sixteen teachers had the chance to explore Memphis during an AHTC Experiential Learning Trip. To prepare for the trip, teachers read books on Memphis and provided detailed descriptions of the books. They also attended a morning workshop featuring Jimmy “Mr. Memphis” Ogle. Mr. Ogle is a lifelong Memphian who has read over 300 books about the city he calls home!

Monday, June 21^st was a travel day for the teachers, and no group activities were planned. Many teachers chose to arrive at our hotel, The Peabody, early in the day in order to explore the city and its nightlife.

Tuesday began with a motor coach tour around Memphis as Jimmy Ogle shared more the city’s rich history. Teachers were able to see the places the group would soon visit, as well as the parks and neighborhoods of Memphis.

Following the motor coach tour, AHTC teachers received a brief lecture from Director of Operations, Carol Perel, at The Cotton Museum at the Memphis Cotton Exchange. Teachers then explored the museum, including a life-size replica of the trading board with actual figures from December 1939

as well as a historical timeline of cotton, and a hands-on exhibit where teachers could find out first-hand what it would feel like to drag a bag of cotton through the fields.

We had lunch at the Kooky Canuck on Tuesday before heading to the home of The King: Graceland. Teachers took a self-guided audio tour of the home of Elvis in small groups, including Graceland Mansion and grounds, Lisa Marie (the airplane), the Automobile Museum, and Elvis Presley: Fashion King. Included in the Graceland Mansion tour are the infamous Jungle Room, and the grave of Elvis and his parents. Following the tour of Graceland, teachers were given the night to discover Memphis’ dinner fare and nightlife.