It is a source of continued controversy in Memphis but it also a nicely done statue. In 1905 the remains of Nathan Bedford Forrest and his wife were moved from Elmwood Cemetery to this park. Many people, led by the NAACP, want his remains moved back to Elmwood (I guess the statue would be moved there too) as they detest Forrest's life (slave trader, leader of the Confederates at Fort Pillow and the involvement with the KKK). But for now nothing will happen as the park has been placed on the National Register of Historic Places, an event that happened about a month ago.
If you go be advised that this is not a great area of town. There were a number of bums on one side of the park. I parked across the street at an office supply store, took my pictures and got out before anyone knew I was there. Knowing the hatred blacks have for the park I figured being alone in the park with several bums was not the smartest thing I've done. I only have these four pictures, wish I had more, but maybe I'll go again in a group and will feel more secure.
Those are some good photos considering that you had to keep watch to make sure no one was approaching from behind.
ReplyDeleteNBF certainly was an interesting historical figure though I understand those who would detest some of his life events.