Plan A Powerful Journey into the Past on the Civil Rights Trail in Memphis

Memphis occupies a special place in the history of American Civil Rights. It echoes of struggle, violence, and perseverance. It’s home to powerful legacies, untold stories, and a rich and varied culture. Simply put, Memphis is a place that speaks to the soul. As you consider your next class trip destination, plan a powerful journey into the past on the Civil Rights Trail in Memphis.

Unearthing the Roots of Freedom

The fight for civil rights in Memphis is deeply connected to human rights. Two prominent Memphis museums are dedicated specifically to outlining this important struggle.

The National Civil Rights Museum

The National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel is a prime example of how our history continues to move us forward. Here students get a clear overview of the journey from slavery to the ongoing fight for equality – including challenges and successes.

This museum houses many moving exhibits, including the bus on which Rosa Parks famously remained seated and the torched Greyhound bus on which the Freedom Riders took a stand.

Perhaps the most monument exhibit, however, is Room 306. This is the motel room where Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. spent his last hours before being assassinated on the balcony on April 4, 1968.

Slave Haven Underground Railroad Museum

The Slave Haven Underground Railroad Museum offers a different perspective of the Civil Rights Movement. It begins with chains in one of the largest forced migrations in history as millions of Africans crossed the Atlantic from the 16th to the 19th centuries through the appalling “Middle Passage.”

Students will learn about the horrors of enslavement and the resiliency of those in bondage, as well as the men and women dedicated to the antislavery movement. They’ll walk through an authentic antebellum home and into the past, revealing secrets that have been hidden for more than 100 years.

Note: Slave Haven is temporarily closed due to a January 2024 fire but is expected to reopen soon. Please check with your student travel planner for more information.

The Echoes of Mason Temple’s Legacy

Mason Temple Church of God in Christ plays a key role in the history of the Civil Rights Movement. It is the place where Dr. King gave his celebrated “Mountaintop” speech, a message of hope and strength that has impacted generations just one day before his assassination.

Today visitors are welcome in this sacred space, which is an international sanctuary and central headquarters of the Church of God in Christ (the largest African American Pentecostal group in the world.)

The Pulse of Civil Rights in Music and Media

Music has always been a source of comfort and strength in our shared human experience. It played a key role during the Civil Rights Movement as people shared messages of change.

Memphis, the “Home of the Blues,” is home to integral places that highlight the strong link between music, media, and the fight for fairness. And there are two places here that your students will not want to miss!

Stax Museum of American Soul Music: Sounds of the Movement

Take a deep dive into Memphis music history at the Stax Museum of American Soul Music. The museum is located on the original site of the Stax Records studio and the only one in the world dedicated to “preserving and promoting the legacy of Stax Records and American soul music.”

You’ll learn how the unique sound of American Soul broke down racial barriers and created a soundtrack for change.

Here, you can:

• Learn about music legends like Otis Redding, Isaac Hayes, and Carla Thomas. These famous folks used their voices and celebrity to fight for equality.
• Walk the floors of a world-renowned studio and feel the ghosts of the soulful sounds that once filled this space.
• Explore the connection between music and activism as you discover how Stax Records stood as a symbol of hope and unity during tough social times.

WDIA Radio: The Voice of the African American Community

Another important stop on the Memphis Civil Rights Tour is WIDA Radio Station. In a time when segregation ruled, WIDA offered crucial support to the African American community in Memphis and beyond. Founded in 1947, it was the first station in the U.S. created by and for African Americans.

Groups will feel the lasting impact of WDIA, where famous DJs like B.B. King and Rufus Thomas shared the beats of the Memphis sound. More importantly, they’ll learn how this station stood as a symbol of resilience during incredibly difficult times.

Strolling Through Historic Beale Street

Iconic Beale Street is a must-do on your journey into the past! This stretch glows with vibrant, eclectic energy and lively music from beginning to end.

But your students may not know that Beale Street got its start in 1841 as a thriving area for Black-owned businesses and musicians. Here you’ll find the Historical Daisy Theatre and Randle Catron Interpretive Center, Withers Collection Museum & Gallery, First Baptist Church, and Robert R. Church Park.

In addition, Beale Street was home to the Memphis Free Speech and Headlight newspaper, co-owned and edited by Ida B. Wells.

Unfortunately, on May 27, 1892, a white mob attacked and destroyed the newspaper. Eventually Ms. Wells relocated to Chicago, where she continued as an advocate for racial justice until her death in 1931.

Today a commemorative marker for this trailblazing woman is located on the corner of 4^th and Beale Street.

Plan A Powerful Journey into the Past on the Civil Rights Trail in Memphis

The Civil Rights Movement and Black history, music, and culture are the heartbeat of a class trip to Memphis, Tennessee. It’s a place that highlights the struggles and celebrates the strengths of African Americans while offering deep insights into the fight for justice.

Plan your journey into the past on the Civil Rights Trail in Memphis and explore its powerful heritage!

Plan Your Journey into the Past with a Pro

Kaleidoscope Adventures has been planning outstanding student travel for more than 30 years. Online registration and payments, convenient crowdfunding options, and an expert team make your planning simple and efficient.

They’ll work with you to plan an exceptional Memphis Civil Rights experience for your students from start to finish!

PLAN YOUR CIVIL RIGHTS ADVENTURE TO MEMPHIS