Fans visiting Elvis Presley's iconic Graceland mansion express shock over potential auction and voice support for keeping the property in the family, emphasizing its historical significance and cultural impact.
Elvis Presley's Graceland mansion, a beloved pilgrimage for fans of the King of Rock 'n' Roll, has been the subject of a legal battle that has raised concerns about its future ownership. However, visitors to the Memphis, Tennessee, estate have expressed unwavering support for keeping Graceland within the Presley family.
"It would be a shame if it disappeared altogether...as a visitor attraction," said Joan Sutherland, a visitor from England. "It's not a huge amount to bail them out with. I wouldn’t like to do it myself, but somebody might come along and help them out, surely."
Sutherland's sentiment was echoed by Robyn Dann of New Zealand, who lamented the potential loss of the family's connection to the iconic property. "It’s really quite sad, and I think it will be really sad if the family loses control or an interest in Graceland," Dann said.
The legal dispute stems from a loan taken out by Lisa Marie Presley, Elvis's daughter and sole heir to Graceland. A loan company claims Lisa Marie defaulted on the loan, putting the estate up as collateral. The company planned to auction Graceland, along with its surrounding acreage, on Thursday.
However, Riley Keough, Lisa Marie's daughter and Elvis' granddaughter, filed for an injunction to block the sale, alleging that her mother's signature on the deed of trust was forged. A judge granted the injunction, postponing the auction to allow for further legal discovery.
Graceland, purchased by Elvis in 1957, is not just a house but a museum showcasing costumes, artifacts, and personal mementos from the legendary singer and his family. It also features a Convair 880 Jet called "Lisa Marie" that Elvis used during his heyday. A resort hotel and a chapel were also added to the property.
About 600,000 tourists visit Graceland annually, generating a substantial economic impact for Memphis. The property's historical significance and cultural relevance have made it a beloved destination for fans worldwide.
"I would be very sad," said Marlie Randall, another visitor. "Elvis is a very big part of history. A lot of parents and grandparents always looked up to him and loved his music, and I just think that [Graceland] should stay the same."
Randall's companion, Leanna Randall, added, "This is a part of our history."
The potential loss of Graceland has also raised concerns among collectors, who recognize its priceless value as a historical artifact. "Graceland is really a priceless object," said Kevin Hogan, president of Rock Island Auction Co. "There are many priceless objects there that could be sold off separately, and his bed, for instance, could go for an astronomical sum."
As the legal battle continues, Graceland's future ownership remains uncertain. However, the outpouring of support from visitors underscores the importance of preserving the property's connection to the Presley family and ensuring its continued availability to the public as a testament to Elvis Presley's enduring legacy.
