Memphis Then: Milestones from the Past

Twenty-five years ago, Dr. Allen Battle, Memphis’ pioneering suicide prevention advocate, became one of five nationwide to win a Jefferson Award for his life-saving community work. Fifty years ago, the Red Balloon Players launched their eighth free summer theater season in Memphis parks, led by visionary director Jimmy Seacat. Seventy-five years ago, the Overton Park Zoo Circus dazzled crowds with daily free shows—except Mondays—with trained animals and clown comedy. A hundred years ago, WMC radio thrilled listeners with eight orchestras in one week, spanning classical, dance, Hawaiian, and plectrum styles. And back in 1976, Libertyland amusement park opened as a Bicentennial gem, building a loyal following before closing in 2005. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/3b647412f9ca421a