Becoming Historic: Unsettling Preservation as “Activism” in the Memphis Neighborhood of Central Gardens

Leslee Bailey-Tarbett

doi:10.7577/rerm.3853

Abstract

Based on an interdisciplinary research course for graduate students, this paper describes a project that combines arts-based research, walking methodology, and posthuman theories to design a research-creation. The purpose of this assemblage of photographs, archived newsletters, online information, maps, and other materials is to aid in the suspension of linear thinking and offer a unique contribution to the discussion of what gaining “historic” status can do in a particular place/time. This paper describes how the neighborhood association, formed 50 years ago, had the primary mission to lobby for historic status in order to protect property values and prevent multi-dwelling homes and businesses from moving in. By embarking on a multisensory inquiry employing walking methodology, I demonstrate how this insular, exclusive, historic neighborhood continues to be entangled within the surrounding geographic areas, as well as within the socio-politico-and economic dimensions of the city.

Highlights

In the fall of 2017, the city of Memphis was preparing for the 50th anniversary of the assassination of Dr Martin Luther King Jr
The events of the year were focused on the theme, MLK50, Where do we go from here?, honoring Dr King as a leader in the Civil Rights Movement while activating social change for the future
I share how research-creation and walking methodology, grounded in posthuman theories, aided in the suspension of linear thinking to offer a unique understanding of what gaining “historic” status can do in a particular place-time

Summary

Introduction

In the fall of 2017, the city of Memphis was preparing for the 50th anniversary of the assassination of Dr Martin Luther King Jr. I share how research-creation and walking methodology, grounded in posthuman theories, aided in the suspension of linear thinking to offer a unique understanding of what gaining “historic” status can do in a particular place-time. When I learned that Dr Nordstrom was designing an arts-based course in which students would explore walking methodology and research-creation, I did not know what that would entail.

Results

Conclusion