Tributaries

Memphis is called the Bluff City since it’s built on a section of the Chickasaw Bluffs. In this episode, we talk to Dr. Kent Moran about the origin of the bluffs and how they have shaped human society for thousands of years.

Music courtesy of Sully Allen, Boon, Drop Ceiling, Luke Ramsey, and the Library of Congress Archives.

This episode, we unpack the story of Etowah Marble, the stone from which the Pink Palace Mansion is built.  We speak with Dr. Julie Johnson of the University of Memphis to understand how marble is formed, and take a look at how this stone is tied up in the history of America, from the Trail of Tears to the creation of modern grocery stores.  Music by Sully Allen, Boon, Drop Ceiling, and Caroline Ford.  Produced by Luke Ramsey and Katie Quinlan

In this episode, we talk to entomologist John Sohigian about mosquitos and how they spread Yellow Fever, which claimed over 20,000 lives in the Mississippi Delta in 1878.  Music by Boon, Drop Ceiling, and Sully Allen.

Step back in time to 1878, to revisit what it was like in Memphis during one of the worst disease outbreaks in history. Learn how Yellow Fever left its mark on the city, and how it still shapes our lives today.

Featuring interviews with Kim Bearden (Elmwood Cemetery) and Taylor Hopkins (Mallory-Neely House)

Hosted by Pink Palace curator Jes Gibson and educator Luke Ramsey

Music and sound production by Luke Ramsey and Boon