GROUP TOUR 2019-20 WOMEN'S SUFFRAGE CENTENNIAL - SUSAN B. ANTHONY - Group Tour Media
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From the editor THE ANNIVERSARY ISSUE Anniversaries are meant to be celebrated — and we’re doing just that in our seventh edition of Group Tour Heritage & History. No, we’re not celebrating our own anniversary, but historic milestones for some of the country’s most pivotal P: 800-767-3489 moments and events. Whether it’s 50, 85, 100 or even 400 F: 616-393-0085 GroupTour.com years, we’ve featured anniversaries that deserve recognition — and places you can take your groups to learn more. Publisher Fifty years ago, Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin became Elly DeVries President the first human beings to walk on the moon — you might remember watching your television in awe on that fateful day Editorial Courtney Birchmeier in 1969. That same year, riots at the Stonewall Inn in New Editor in Chief York City sparked the LGBT civil rights movement. David Hoekman Managing Editor The year 2020 brings numerous anniversaries. In 1935, Elvis Presley was born in a two- Cortney Erndt room house in Tupelo, Mississippi. Next year would be “the King’s” 85th birthday. Associate Editor Kelsey Smith In 1920, the ratification of the Associate Editor 19th Amendment gave women the Art right to vote. The centennial of that Mark Dryer key moment will bring celebrations Art Director Gabrielle Aleman-Gordon across the nation. Next year also Graphic Designer marks the 400th anniversary of the Audience 1620 Mayflower voyage and the Development founding of Plymouth Colony in Cindy Fish Audience Development Director Massachusetts. Bethany Vander Kolk In addition to anniversaries, Circulation Coordinator this issue highlights many history Marketing and heritage sites throughout the Ben DeVries Marketing Director country, which we’ve organized RaDonna Laranja by region. We hope our picks will Marketing & Sales Coordinator spark ideas for your next itinerary. Bethany VanKempen Content Creator & Designer As always, thank you for reading. Administration Jim Bowser Webmaster Kim Kraker Accounting Courtney Birchmeier Advertising courtney@grouptour.com Eric C. Lutey Twitter: @courtneygtm Director of Sales | Eric@GroupTour.com 800-767-3489 x111 AB, BC, MB, NB, NL, NS, PE, QC, SK, YT Jim Holthaus Group Tour Media is a proud member of: JimH@GroupTour.com | 616-283-1816 IA, IL, IN, MI, MN, OH, WI, TN, ON Greg Jones American Bus Association National Tour Association Greg@GroupTour.com | 859-327-6471 DC, DE, MD, NJ, NY, PA, CT, MA, ME, NH, California Travel Association New Mexico Hospitality Association RI, VT Circle Michigan Ohio Travel Association Alan Lininger Alan@GroupTour.com | 717-778-8056 Destinations International Ontario Motor Coach Association AL, AR, FL, GA, KY, LA, MO, MS, NC, SC, VA, WV Florida Attractions Association Southeast Tourism Society Aimee Smith Louisiana Travel Promotions Student & Youth Travel Association Aimee@GroupTour.com | 717-668-2720 Association AZ, CA, CO, HI, ID, KS, MT, ND, NE, NM, NV, Virginia Motorcoach Association OK, OR, SD, TX, UT, WA, WY 2 Heritage & History 2019-20 Planning Guide
Contents GROUP TOUR 2019–20 FEATURES REGIONS 4 Ratified 6 Great Lakes WOMEN’S SUFFRAGE CENTENNIAL SHINES PAST MEETS PRESENT IN THE SPOTLIGHT ON HISTORIC NEW YORK SITES GREAT LAKES REGION 14 Stonewall: 50 years later 16 Mid-Atlantic NYC WALKING TOUR SPOTLIGHTS HISTORIC DISCOVER HISTORIC TREASURES LGBT CIVIL RIGHTS SITES IN THE MID-ATLANTIC 22 Plymouth 400 24 New England ENTER ONE OF AMERICA’S FOUNDING STORIES EXPLORE NEW ENGLAND’S RICH HISTORY 30 All shook up 32 Southeast 2020 MARKS THE KING’S 85TH BIRTHDAY UNCOVER THE SOUTHEAST’S STORIED PAST 40 Mankind’s greatest adventure ASTRONOMY SITES REMINISCE PIVOTAL 42 West MOON VOYAGE CULTURES AND CUSTOMS SHINE IN THE WEST grouptourmagazine.com 3
Ratified WOMEN’S SUFFRAGE CENTENNIAL SHINES SPOTLIGHT ON HISTORIC NEW YORK SITES By Courtney Birchmeier The National Susan B. Anthony Museum & House Votes for women portrayers Susan B. Anthony Mt. Hope Cemetery ug. 18, 1920, marked a pivotal of women’s equality. But, no place moment in American history. On that knows the women’s suffrage move- day, the 19th Amendment to the United ment quite like Rochester, New York. In July 1848, the Seneca Falls Con- States Constitution was ratified, giving “Rochester was a central location of vention took place in Seneca Falls, New American women the right to vote. De- one of the most important social move- York, about 50 miles from Rochester. cades of activism by women the likes of ments in history,” said Rachel Laber “The movement began with a wom- Susan B. Anthony, Elizabeth Cady Stan- Pulvino, director of communications en’s rights convention in nearby Seneca ton, Ida B. Wells and so many others led and public relations at Visit Rochester. Falls in 1848, and from that point for- to that key moment in history. “Today the city continues to be very ward grew into one of the largest social The year 2020 marks the centennial proud of famous Rochesterians like Su- movements of its time,” Laber Pulvino of that momentous event. Communi- san B. Anthony and Frederick Douglass. said. “At the Seneca Falls Convention in ties across the country will celebrate To experience this history in person is 1848, attendees signed the Declaration the milestone with events and pro- inspiring for all ages and genders.” of Sentiments, declaring, ‘We hold these grams honoring the past and present truths to be self-evident: that all men Clockwise from top right: Courtesy of Visit Rochester (4); Mrs. L. Condon 4 Heritage & History 2019-20 Planning Guide
and women are created equal.’” The Women’s Rights National Historical Park, which comprises sites in Seneca Falls and Waterloo, tells the story of the first women’s rights convention in the coun- try. The park’s main draw is the Wesleyan Chapel in Seneca Falls, the location of the convention. Only part of the structure remains today, and group tours will often begin at the site to get an orientation of the park. Nearby, the visitor center showcases statues of the convention organizers, exhibits and an orientation film: Let’s Have Tea sculpture of Susan B. Dreams of Equality. Anthony and Frederick Douglass The park also includes the Elizabeth Cady Stanton House in Seneca Falls and the M’Clintock House in Waterloo. The homes are small, so large groups are encouraged to break into smaller groups when visiting. “We hope visitors take with them the understand- ing that women’s rights are human rights,” said Denise DeLucia, education-training specialist and volunteer coordinator at the park. “We hope they reflect on the Declaration of Sentiments and how that was drafted based on the Declaration of Independence — how alike they are, and how different they are. It's up to each in- dividual visitor to decide how far we've come, and how far we have yet to go.” Elizabeth Cady Stanton House The red brick house at 17 Madison St. in Rochester stands as a National Historic Landmark and an inspiration for positive change. It was there that Susan B. Anthony lived and worked until her death in 1906. The National Visit Rochester staff can create custom tours for groups wishing Susan B. Anthony Museum & House preserves her legacy. to see women’s history-related sites in the area — during the cen- “The women's suffrage centennial means a great deal tennial, and any time before or after. to us at the Susan B. Anthony House,” said Linda Lopa- “Both the Susan B. Anthony Museum and the Greater ta, director of interpretation & visitor services. “Not Rochester community will be holding events (in 2020),” Laber only does the year 2020 commemorate the culmination Pulvino said. “The museum will be the main focal point for the of Susan B. Anthony’s decades of work and sacrifice for year, but groups like the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra and woman’s suffrage, but it is also her 200th birthday!” Geva Theatre Center will hold events, programs and perfor- On tours of the house, groups learn about the events mances that reflect the suffrage centennial and Rochester’s role that happened there, like her arrest after voting in the in this historic event.” 1872 election. In the parlor, she strategized with famous Events also will take place at the Women’s Rights National His- reformers like Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Lucretia Mott torical Park. Group visits can be arranged by contacting the park. and Ida B. Wells. Other nearby sites include Mount Hope Cemetery, the final “The adult tour asks people to reflect upon what resting place of Susan B. Anthony and Frederick Douglass; the America was and is,” Lopata said. “What do the words Ontario County Courthouse, the site of Susan B. Anthony’s trial etched on the Anthony family gravestone, ‘liberty, jus- after her arrest for illegally voting in the 1872 election; and the tice, equality and humanity’ mean? How do sexism and National Women’s Hall of Fame. n racism play a part as we strive for these ideals?” The Visitor Center is located in the historic house Visit Rochester next door, which was owned by Susan B. Anthony’s 585-279-8309 sister, Hannah. visitrochester.com From top: Visit Rochester, NPS grouptourmagazine.com 5
Great Lakes PAST MEETS PRESENT IN THE GREAT LAKES REGION Travel the Midwest’s highways and byways and step outside the 21st centu- ry at these points of interest. Connect with famous people and ordinary citizens of the past by visiting historic homes. Get the scoop on early flour milling, and car and motorcycle manufacturing at top-notch museums. See how skilled craftspeople build old-fashioned washboards in the last operating American washboard facto- ry. Share the heritage of the Amish at a historic 80-acre farm in the peaceful Indiana countryside. Hackley & Hume Historic Site Muskegon, Michigan Tour the unique living spaces show- Grand Rapids, Michigan, designed the homes are open from May through casing how Muskegon lumber barons homes for Charles H. Hackley and his October, with special events around the lived in their late 19th-century Victorian partner Thomas Hume. The homes were year-end holidays. homes. Architect David S. Hopkins of built between 1887 and 1889. Restored 231-722-0278, lakeshoremuseum.org GROUP TOURS EXPERIENCE MUSKEGON, MI MOTOR COACH FRIENDLY HOTELS CUSTOMIZED ITINERARIES STEP-ON GUIDES C ALL BERNADETTE AT 1. 8 0 0 . 2 5 0 . 9 2 8 3 VISITMUSKEGON.ORG 6 Heritage & History 2019-20 Planning Guide GTM
Great Lakes Hands-On Fun Get Your Craft On! Carillon Historical Park Ford Piquette Avenue Plant “All the different hands-on activities Dayton, Ohio Detroit, Michigan are a blast, no talent required! The 65-acre open-air history muse- The Ford Motor Company’s first You are treated like their guest and everything is planned out for you. um holds over 30 historic structures and purpose-built factory is known as the We loved it!” is the main campus for Dayton History. birthplace of the Ford Model T car. In – Triumph Community Bank Travel Club, Learn how Dayton changed the world. the three-story brick factory, modeled East Moline, IL In addition to a Deeds Carillon, the park after New England textile mills, visitors is home of the Wright Brother National Museum and Carillon Brewing Co., the nation’s only fully-operational produc- see where the Model T was developed and assembled. Introduced in 1908, the Tin Lizzie was the first car most Ameri- Request Your tion brewery in a museum. 937-293-2841, ext. 127; daytonhistory.org cans could afford. 313-872-8759, fordpiquetteplant.org FREE Planner Call 1-800-322-8198 or order it online at: www.TOURSoutheastIndiana.com/planner OHIO Indianapolis INDIANA 1 Cincinnati KENTUCKY Louisville Lexington South of I-74 & west of I-275, 20 minutes west of Cincinnati www.TOURSoutheastIndiana.com 800-322-8198 Ford Piquette Avenue Plant grouptourmagazine.com 7
Great Lakes Harley-Davidson Museum Milwaukee, Wisconsin The Harley-Davidson Muse- um is a place where history roars to life. Examine Serial Number One, the oldest known Har- ley-Davidson motorcycle, and see how the history of the company is woven into the history of Ameri- ca. Sit in the saddle of one of the many legendary motorcycles in the Experience Gallery. Group visits can be customized with a guided tour, unique merchandise from The Shop and a genuine Milwaukee dining experience in MOTOR Bar & Restaurant. 414-287-2799, h-dmuseum.com There’s something about the Harley-Davidson Museum. Our exhibits and curiosities are fueled by more than motorcycles. Give your group a custom-made experience. Visit H-DMuseum.com to start your tour build. © 2019 H-D or its affiliates. HARLEY-DAVIDSON, HARLEY, H-D, and the Bar and Shield Logo are among the trademarks of H-D U.S.A., LLC. 8 Heritage & History 2019-20 Planning Guide
Great Lakes Tour SOUTHEAST INDIANA RiveR Town Spend a day along the Ohio River Scenic Byway and explore historic Aurora. Follow an urban arts trail with your artist guide, tour landmark mansions, enjoy a “Linens & Luxury” luncheon and visit a small brewery with a big history. “Wonderful experience, Top-notch service!” - CB&S Bank Shining Stars, Russellville, AL Amish Acres Amish Acres Nappanee, Indiana Where History is Fun! This 80-acre restored Old Order “Windows of Aurora” Amish farm is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Groups Hillforest Victorian explore the farm and experience the House Museum Historic lifestyle of the Amish through guided tours, musical theater, craft demonstra- White Pine tions, farm animals, restaurants, shops Vi age ® and the surrounding countryside. Meal options, overnight and day-trip packages, hands-on activities and wine tastings are available. Autumn is a special time during Amish Acres’ Fall Harvest Days. The grounds are decorated with scarecrows OHIO and pumpkins, and the fragrance of Indianapolis apple butter fills the air. Take a tour, INDIANA 1 Cincinnati then head to the kitchen for a hands-on lesson to make shoofly pie. Afterward, KENTUCKY dine in the rustic Barn Restaurant. 800-800-4942, ext. 213; amishacres.com Louisville Lexington South of I-74 & west of I-275, 20 minutes west of Cincinnati MasonCountyHistoricalSociety.com 231-843-4808 www.TOURSoutheastIndiana.com 800-322-8198 Amish Acres grouptourmagazine.com 9
Great Lakes First Ladies National Mill City Museum Historic Site Minneapolis, Minnesota Canton, Ohio Discover the flour-milling industry, The home of former first lady Ida which fueled the growth of Minne- Saxton McKinley and the seven-story apolis. The museum is built within 1895 City Bank Building are preserved the ruins of a flour mill and a giant at this site, which honors the lives and elevator or Flour Tower transports accomplishments of the country’s first guests through eight levels of the ladies. Guided tours of the house begin building and back through time. The a block away at the former bank, now museum features hands-on exhibits, the Education & Research Center. The breathtaking views of the Minneapolis National First Ladies’ Library is the riverfront, 19th-century flour milling managing and operating partner of the machines, vintage advertising and a site for the National Park Service. Baking Lab. 330-452-0876, nps.gov/fila 651-259-3003, mnhs.org/millcity A tradition since 1887 Enjoy the history and unique ambiance of Grand Hotel. Stay overnight and enjoy a full breakfast and dinner daily or visit for the day and experience our legendary Grand Luncheon Buffet, a multi-year winner of the TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence. Call Julia Luckey at 906-847-3331 or grouptours@grandhotel.com 1-800-33GRA ND • gr a ndhotel.com 10 Heritage & History 2019-20 Planning Guide From top: Charlie Vaughn/Minnesota Historical Society, Dustin M. Ramsey
Great Lakes Columbus Washboard Company factory in the Hocking Hills. While work- ers use vintage machinery to cut and fash- Logan, Ohio ion material, washboards are assembled Take a guided tour of the last operating by hand one at a time. Today’s washboards American washboard factory. The com- are used for laundry, as decorative pieces pany, established in 1895 near Columbus, and as musical instruments. 740-380-3828, columbuswashboard.com Ohio, relocated in 1999 to a former shoe Pewabic Detroit, Michigan A working historic pottery, built in 1907, Pewabic offers groups a one- hour guided tour through its National Historic Landmark pottery building. See where the clay is processed, tiles are pressed and glazed and the kilns where pieces are fired. Add a hands- on workshop to learn the basics of tile-making. 313-626-2062, pewabic.org INDIANA’S Unforgettable Group Experience! Visit French Lick West Baden is a favorite destination for groups large and small. Nestled in the heart of Southern Indiana and surrounded by the Hoosier National Forest, this resort community has welcomed guests who have enjoyed awe inspiring getaways for over 100 years. We invite you to relive the fabulous history and vibrant lifestyles of this breathtaking destination that offers gracious hospitality, ultimate luxury, and a multitude of opportunities at any pace. For itinerary recommendations contact Shelby Rice at shelby@visitfrenchlickwestbaden.com 812-936-3418 • vflwb.com/groups • GTM/David Hoekman grouptourmagazine.com 11
Great Lakes Old World Wisconsin Eagle, Wisconsin The 600-acre regional history attrac- grant farm and rural life. The museum breeds and try historic crafts and skills. tion, one of 12 Wisconsin Historical offers groups hands-on activities, led Group add-ons include a guided tram Society sites, features interactive environ- by period-clad staff members, as they experience and lunch options. ments and immersive stories of 19th- and visit 10 working farmsteads, explore 12 262-594-6313, early 20th-century Midwestern immi- heirloom gardens, meet heritage animal oldworldwisconsin.wisconsinhistory.org visitmarionohio.com 800-371-6688 Opening Spring, 2020 Newly restored Home of President Warren G. Harding Multi-day Ohio Presidents itineraries - four presidential sites in as little as five days. 12 Heritage & History 2019-20 Planning Guide Old World Wisconsin
Great Lakes 3 PLACES FOR AUTOMOTIVE HERITAGE Gilmore Car Museum Studebaker National Museum Auburn Cord Duesenberg Hickory Corners, Michigan South Bend, Indiana Automobile Museum Spend the day at North America’s For information on one of the famed Auburn, Indiana largest auto museum, located on 90 auto manufacturers of the past and to The museum is located in the original acres about 20 minutes northeast of see its vehicles, head to the Studebaker 1930s national headquarters of the Au- Kalamazoo, Michigan. Besides nearly National Museum. The three-level mu- burn Automobile Company and is a Na- 400 vehicles, many of them housed in seum displays the first and last vehicles tional Historic Landmark. More than 120 historic barns and re-created automo- the corporation made and boasts the classic, antique, vintage and special-in- bile dealerships, the campus includes largest U.S. Presidential Carriage Collec- terest cars — including Auburns, Cords a 1930s Shell gasoline station. Eat tion in the world. Plus, there’s a military and Duesenbergs — are displayed with lunch in the authentic 1941 Blue Moon collection and temporary exhibitions. other automotive-related exhibits on Diner (April to November) or The Heri- 574-235-9714 three floors. Docent-led tours are avail- tage Cafe (December to March). studebakermuseum.org able with advance notice. 269-671-5089, ext. 12 260-925-1444, ext. 33 gilmorecarmuseum.org automobilemuseum.org D I S C OV E R T H E S TO RY O F F R E E D O M ’ S H E RO E S . B O O K YO U R G RO U P TO U R TO DAY. 50 East Freedom Way Cincinnati, OH 45202 freedomcenter.org (513) 333-7578 | groupsales@nurfc.org grouptourmagazine.com 13
Stonewall: 50 years later NYC walking tour spotlights historic LGBT civil rights sites By David Hoekman f ifty years ago, events in a New York City neighborhood proved to be a turning point in the lesbian, gay, bisex- ual and transgender civil rights move- ment in the United States. The Stonewall riots, also called Stonewall uprising, inspired LGBT peo- ple around the country to assert their rights on a broader scale. The Stonewall Inn became a rallying point for gay rights on June 28, 1969, when a police raid on the bar led to re- sistance from patrons and neighborhood residents, which resulted in six days of demonstrations. The Stonewall Inn In June 2016, President Barack Obama designated the area surrounding The Stonewall Inn and Christopher Park as Stonewall National Monument. “Stonewall isn’t just a building,” said Cortney Worrall, Northeast senior regional director for National Parks Conservation Association. “It is a place that catalyzed great change in our coun- try in 1969. The events that took place in June of that year at Stonewall are a part of United States’ civil rights history, marking a turning point for the modern LGBT civil rights movement.” Walking tour Christopher Park NYC LGBT Historic Sites Project “In 2017, NPCA and its partners experience of discovering a rich history. and the National Parks Conservation launched the first walking tour of 20 The importance of LGBT life in New Association have collaborated on a historic sites historically significant to York City’s Greenwich Village, long be- 45-minute LGBT self-guided walking the LGBT community in and around the fore and after the uprising, can only fully tour of Manhattan’s Greenwich Village monument,” Worrall said. “Nearly two be understood by visiting the sites and that includes sites associated with the years later, the walking tour continues to walking the streets — streets so compact events of Stonewall and LGBT history. give visitors from around the world the their physical layout played a role in pre- 14 Heritage & History 2019-20 Planning Guide From top: Brittany Petronella, Tagger Yancey IV
venting the police in 1969 from stopping the uprising.” Celebrate the Maps are available at the national monument and can be downloaded Year of Pride from nyclgbtsites.org and npca.org. “Stonewall National Monument, NYC & Company, New York the first national park site dedicated to City’s official destination mar- LGBT history, recognizes the key role keting organization, has de- the surrounding neighborhood played in clared 2019 as the Year of Pride. the movement,” Worrall said. “Immers- NYC is the leading LGBTQ des- ing ourselves in this powerful national park — and our more than 400 park tination in the U.S. year after sites across the country — is how we as year and welcomes visitors of a nation remember our painful past and all genders, all ages and from all ensure we don’t repeat our mistakes.” parts of the U.S. and the world. Among the sites on the tour are NYC is offering a collection Christopher Park Christopher Park, The Stonewall Inn, of Pride activities and events to Ridiculous Theatrical Co. (currently the enjoy before, after and during Axis Theatre Company), the Mattachine WorldPride and the 50th anniver- Society (currently Kettle of Fish), the sary of the Stonewall riots in June. site of the start of New York’s first Pride “We have declared 2019 the March, Stewart’s Cafeteria (currently Year of Pride, to not only cele- Bank of America) and Julius’ Bar. Julius’ brate WorldPride and Stonewall was the site of the 1966 “Sip-In” by the 50 but to acknowledge the per- Mattachine Society, an early LGBT petual spirit of New York City’s rights group, challenging the New York vibrant LGBTQ community,” said State Liquor Authority’s discriminatory Fred Dixon, president and CEO policy of revoking the license of bars of NYC & Company. “In addition that served gay men and lesbians. to the iconic events in June, the Inside Christopher Park, travelers can city is brimming with a yearlong see George Segal’s Gay Liberation monu- roster of cultural activity.” ment; the statues were added in 1992. WorldPride will take place in “Our mission is to make the invis- New York City — the first time ible history of New York City’s LGBT the global event will be held community, which can be felt through- First Gay Pride Parade in the U.S. — from June 25–30, out the city but particularly here in with an anticipated 4 million Greenwich Village, a visible and better understood facet of our city’s historical visitors. fabric,” said Jay Shockley, co-director of nycgo.com/maps-guides/gay the NYC LGBT Historic Sites Project, stonewall50consortium.org the nonprofit group responsible for the historical research to inform the tour. “The public’s response to the tour has been very, very gratifying,” he added. “Everyone who has taken it has learned something new.” n National Parks Conservation Association, npca.org NYC LGBT Historic Sites Project nyclgbtsites.org Stonewall National Monument From top: Brittany Petronella, © Estate of Fred W. McDarrah, NPS grouptourmagazine.com 15
Mid-Atlantic DISCOVER HISTORIC TREASURES IN THE MID-ATLANTIC Historic sites in the Mid-Atlantic region who passed through Ellis Island and flocked Battleship of the United States are as varied as its ge- to industrial areas that grew into some of the New Jersey ography. The region was the setting of many nation’s largest cities. And, let’s not forget Revolutionary War and Civil War battles the nation’s capital, which is home to some Camden, New Jersey and where the Declaration of Independence of the world’s most famous monuments and Berthed on the Camden was signed in 1776. The Mid-Atlantic was a memorials. Groups visiting this area of the Waterfront, the Battleship welcoming place for European immigrants country won’t have trouble finding heritage New Jersey Museum and in the late-19th and early-20th centuries, and history sites. Memorial offers interactive group tours of the “Big J.” On tours, visitors see living spaces, command and control centers, weapon systems and on-board exhibits in the museum. Added group options in- clude live USO-style shows, discounted combination tickets to nearby attrac- tions, catered lunches and professional photography. 866-877-6262, ext. 144; battleshipnewjersey.org 16 Heritage & History 2019-20 Planning Guide Battleship New Jersey
Mid-Atlantic Nemours Estate Wilmington, Delaware Taking inspiration from the Palace of Versailles in France, the late Alfred I. duPont developed his estate like a European oasis. The property includes a 77-room mansion; the largest formal French gardens in North America; a Chauffeur’s Garage, housing a collec- tion of vintage automobiles used on the estate; and nearly 200 acres of scenic woodlands, meadows and lawns. Visits to the estate are typically self-paced and self-guided, with interpreters stationed at key locations. Guided tours are available by request. The estate is open May–December. 302-651-6912, nemoursestate.org Ford’s Theatre Washington, D.C. Celebrate President Abraham Lincoln’s legacy and his love for the performing arts at Ford’s Theatre, the site where he was assassinated in 1865. More than 650,000 people visit the the- ater each year. At the on-site museum, groups can explore exhibits on Lin- coln’s presidency, Civil War milestones and the assassination conspiracy led by John Wilkes Booth. The historic theater offers a season of plays and musicals throughout the year. Intimate guided tours of the theater and Washington, D.C., are available on select days. 800-899-2367, fords.org Left to right: Moonloop Photography LLC, Maxwell MacKenzie grouptourmagazine.com 17
Mid-Atlantic Museum of the American Revolution the nation’s founding. Revolution- diverse array of people who created a new ary-era weapons, personal items, nation against incredible odds. One of the Philadelphia, Pennsylvania documents and works of art are museum’s must-sees is Gen. Washington’s Located just steps from Independence all part of its vast collection. Immersive War Tent, which served as his office and Hall, Museum of the American Revolution galleries, powerful theater experiences sleeping quarters throughout the Revolu- offers groups a deeper understanding of and digital touchscreens bring to life the tionary War. Guided tours are available. 267-579-3623, amrevmuseum.org National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne Felton Bequest, 1922 S E P T E M B E R 2 8 , 2 0 1 9 – F E B R U A R Y 1 7, 2 0 2 0 What can a life tell us about an era? Follow the untold story of Richard St. George, an Irish soldier and artist whose personal trauma and untimely death provide a window into the entangled histories of the American Revolution and the ensuing bloody Irish Revolution of 1798. Experience Garrett Co. Maryland SM P S A u U t h e O n t R G B O O K Y O U R G R O U P V I S I T T O D AY ! i c groups@amrevmuseum.org www.amrevmuseum.org 3RD & CHESTNUT STREETS, PHIL ADELPHIA 18 Heritage & History 2019-20 Planning Guide Museum of the American Revolution
Mid-Atlantic 9/11 Memorial & Museum New York City Located on eight of the World Trade Center site’s 16 acres, the 9/11 Memorial & Museum is a place to remember and honor the 2,983 people killed in the hor- rific attacks of September 11, 2001, and February 26, 1993. The 9/11 Memorial consists of two reflecting pools formed in the footprints of the original Twin Towers. The 9/11 Memorial Museum tells the story of the events through artifacts, first-person accounts and mul- timedia displays. Its 110,000 square feet of exhibition space displays more than 900 personal and monumental objects. Guided tours are available. 212-266-5200, 911memorial.org BOOK P ROU YOUR G Y! Independence National TODA Historical Park Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Known as the birthplace of Ameri- can democracy, Independence National THE ONLY MUSEUM Historical Park is the site of events that helped form a nation. The main draw, of the U.S. CONSTITUTION Independence Hall is the site where both the Declaration of Independence and U.S. Constitution were debated Contact Gina Romanelli at and signed. Nearby sits the Liberty Bell gina@constitutioncenter.org or 215.409.6695 Center, Congress Hall and the Benjamin Franklin Museum. Ranger-led tours are available in many of the buildings. Independence Mall ê Philadelphia, PA 215-965-2305, nps.gov/inde Clockwise from top left: Jim Lee, 9/11 Memorial & Museum, Robin Miller for PHLCVB grouptourmagazine.com 19
Mid-Atlantic Statue of Liberty Museum seum features three gallery spaces, each museum’s roof offers visitors sweeping, one meant to inspire visitors and edu- panoramic views of Lady Liberty, lower Ellis Island, New York cate them about the Statue of Liberty in Manhattan and all of New York Harbor. Opened in May, the new Statue of interactive and thought-provoking ways. Access to the museum is free with the Liberty Museum celebrates the Statue of The Inspiration Gallery includes Liberty’s purchase of a ferry ticket to Liberty and Liberty’s history, influence and legacy in most iconic symbol — her original torch Ellis Islands. the world. The 26,000-square-foot mu- — held high for nearly 100 years. The statueoflibertymuseum.org WAKE UP IN HISTORY Capitol Visitor Center Lesson plans, sample itineraries and travel tips on a new online education portal. Washington, D.C. The Capitol Visitor Center is the Gettysburg Battlefield starting point for a visit to the U.S. Stay in affordable, group-friendly Hagerstown Westminster Capitol. Comprising three levels under- lodgings close to Washington, D.C. Antietam Battlefield Frederick ground, the visitor center educates the Baltimore in Maryland’s Heart of the Harpers Ferry public about the legislative process, as Civil War Heritage Area. Washington, D.C. well as the history, architecture and art of the U.S. Capitol. The center includes REQUEST MORE INFO AT exhibitions, dining options, two orien- heartofthecivilwar.org/education tation theaters, an auditorium and a gift shop. Guided Capitol tours take groups to the Crypt, the Rotunda and National Statuary Hall. Booking information for groups can be found on the Capitol Visitor Center website. tours.visitthecapitol.gov 20 Heritage & History 2019-20 Planning Guide From left: FXCollaboraive, Architect of the Capitol
Mid-Atlantic 3 CIVIL WAR-RELATED SITES National Museum of Civil Gettysburg National Antietam National Battlefield War Medicine Military Park Sharpsburg, Maryland Frederick, Maryland Gettysburg, Pennsylvania Considered one of the best-pre- Groups can follow in the footsteps As the Civil War’s bloodiest battle, served battlefields in the country, An- of Civil War soldiers and surgeons the Battle of Gettysburg was a turning tietam gives groups a place to reflect at the National Museum of Civil War point in the war and the inspiration for on the sacrifices made during one of Medicine. Nearly 10,000 square feet President Lincoln’s “Gettysburg Ad- America’s greatest struggles. Known as of exhibit space, spread throughout dress.” Groups should begin their park “the bloodiest day in American history,” two floors, sheds light on the war’s visit with a stop at the Gettysburg Na- the battle on Sept. 17, 1862, ended the harsh conditions, personal sacrifices tional Military Park Museum and Vis- Confederate Army of Northern Virgin- and brilliant innovations of Civil War itor Center, where they can watch an ia’s first invasion into the North and led medicine. A variety of tour options are orientation film and view the Battle of President Abraham Lincoln to issue the available for groups. Gettysburg cyclorama painting. Tours preliminary Emancipation Proclama- can be arranged with the park’s battle- tion. Guided battlefield walks and talks 301-378-9726, civilwarmed.org field guides. are available. 717-334-1124, nps.gov/gett 301-432-5124, nps.gov/anti HAGERSTOWN Arts. HAS IT! Culture. History. Call Today! 301-791-3246 • VISITHAGERSTOWN.COM grouptourmagazine.com 21
Plymouth 400 Enter one of America’s founding stories By David Hoekman t he countdown is underway to com- memorate the 400th anniversary of the 1620 Mayflower voyage and the founding of Plymouth Colony. A year-long commemoration is set for 2020 in Plymouth, Massachusetts, and throughout the state. Plymouth 400, Inc., a nonprofit orga- nization, was founded in 2009 to lead the planning and execution of the programs and events commemorating the mile- stone. The commemoration will highlight the cultural contributions and American traditions that began with the interaction Wampanoag Homesite of the Wampanoag and English peoples. “The story of 1620 is complex with multiple perspectives, but is one which is relevant now more than ever,” said Michele Pecoraro, executive director of Plymouth 400, Inc. “The way the story is being told is different than past com- memorations because each of the four nations involved are at the table together for the first time. “The cultural contributions and traditions that began with the interaction Plimoth Plantation of the Wampanoag and English peoples have significantly shaped the building of America but until now, this complex sto- The Wampanoag tribes of Massa- ry was told from a narrow perspective,” chusetts will lead the walk. Participants she said. “For the first time, the Native will pay homage to Massasoit and King voice is included and the fact that the Phillip and stop at designated sites to bless story begins with the indigenous people the spots where Wampanoag ancestors who had lived on this continent for thou- walked. sands of years and are still here today.” One of Plymouth 400’s Signature Plymouth 400, Inc. Events, the Wampanoag Ancestors Walk, is 508-812-2020 National Monument to the Forefathers scheduled for Aug. 1, 2020, in Plymouth. plymouth400inc.org 22 Heritage & History 2019-20 Planning Guide Clockwise from top: Massachusetts Office of Travel & Tourism, Hawk Visuals/Plymouth 400, Inc., Plymouth 400, Inc.
Plimoth Plantation One of Plymouth’s can’t-miss attrac- flame of this part of our nation’s history.” due to maritime and other conditions. tions is Plimoth Plantation. The living The Pilgrims landed in Provincetown Beyond Mayflower II, groups visiting history museum tells the interwoven Harbor, where they signed the Mayflower the plantation can explore Plimoth stories of two distinct cultures — En- Compact, before sailing on to Plymouth. Grist Mill, Wampanoag Homesite and glish and Wampanoag. Mayflower II, Plimoth Plantation’s 17th-Century English Village and Craft “Plimoth Plantation is proud to be a full-scale reproduction of the ship that Center exhibits. Groups with a specific part of the commemorations and cele- carried the Pilgrims to Massachusetts, interest, such as period cookery, Native brations across the commonwealth and will serve as the centerpiece of the 400th culture or timber-frame construction, the nation in 2020,” said Ellie Donovan, anniversary programs. The vessel is may book a specialized speaker or executive director at Plimoth Plantation. currently being restored. reserve a guided tour. Historical-themed “Massachusetts is the birthplace of the Visitors can look forward to board- dining experiences are available. n United States, and Mayflower represents ing the ship once again in Plymouth, lantati our ongoing American experiment in and plans are underway for sails to Plimoth Plantation self-government. Everyone involved Boston and Provincetown in 2020. May- 508-746-1622, ext. 8358 feels honored to be the keepers of the flower II’s schedule is subject to change plymouth400inc.org Mayflower II before restoration 17th-Century English Village Plymouth Harbor THE OFFICIAL PLYMOUTH 400TH ANNIVERSARY TOUR PLYMOUTH 400, INC., HAS COORDINATED AN OFFICIAL GROUP TOUR ITINERARY WITH TOUR TRENDS LTD., THE OFFICIAL TOUR OPERATOR OF PLYMOUTH 400. Highlights include: • An orientation tour of Boston • Pilgrim Hall Museum • Present-day Plymouth and Leyden Street • Mashpee Wampanoag Indian Museum • Plimoth Plantation Tour Trends Ltd., 800-918-8687 From left: Nicole Meighan/Plymouth 400, Inc.; Massachusetts Office of Travel & Tourism; Hawk Visuals, Plymouth 400, Inc. grouptourmagazine.com 23
new england EXPLORE NEW ENGLAND’S RICH HISTORY New England is all about heritage and support independence from the British gov- Lowell National history. The region drew some of the earliest ernment. One of the most notable demon- Historical Park English settlements in the “New World” strations was the Boston Tea Party of 1773. after the arrival of the Pilgrims in 1620 (see New England’s rivers fueled the Industri- Lowell, feature on page 22). al Revolution, and groups can see the mills Massachusetts By the late 18th century, the British colo- where the United States made the first leap nies of New England were among the first to from farm to factories. Lowell National Historical Park in the middle of down- town Lowell tells the story of America’s first planned city for large-scale textile production and the Industrial Revolution. Included are historic cotton textile mills, 5.6 miles of ca- nals, operating gatehouses and worker housing. Stop at the visitor center, the Boott Cotton Mills Museum, and the Mill Girls and Immigrants Exhibit. Available in warm-weather months are canal boat tours, and mill and trolley tours. 978-970-5000, nps.gov/lowe The Greater Merrimack Valley is Great for Groups! Just 30 minutes northwest of Boston, Massachusetts! Visit the region where Liberty Ride Lowell National The UMass Lowell freedom began – Let us customize your visit Historical Park Inn & Conference Center along the historic Battle Road Discover the continuing revolu- The only hotel in the heart of scenic guided tours of through Lexington and Concord tion. Lowell’s water-powered downtown Lowell. Lodging historic Lexington and as costumed guides recount the textile mills catapulted the features 31 year-round rooms events of April 19, 1775 and nation – including immigrant and 150+ seasonal summer Concord MA, guided the literary legacy that defined families and early female factory rooms located close to historical boat tours through American identity and culture. workers – into an uncertain new landmarks, major event venues, Lowell’s hand-dug Rich in cultural activities from industrial era. Nearly 200 years museums and a bustling concerts to historic reenact- later, the changes that began in downtown. Easy travel to Boston canals that powered ments, today’s Lexington offers Lowell make it a living monu- and New Hampshire makes us the mills in the 19th something for everyone. Trolley ment to the dynamic human ideal for tours of any size or and step-on guide service story of the Industrial Revolution. season. Complementary Wi-Fi century, art exhibits available year-round. Departs Call us today to customize your and continental breakfast and galleries, cultural from 1875 Massachusetts Ave, hands-on, educational group included. cuisine, ethnic festivals, Lexington, MA. tour to bring the park to life. 50 Warren Street Lowell, MA 01852 339.223.5623 www.libertyride.us 978.970.5000 www.nps.gov/lowe 978.934.6920 www.uml.edu/icc live entertainment and New England charm await you in the Greater For the latest itineraries and educational group packages call 978.459.6150 or visit Merrimack Valley! www.merrimackvalley.org. 24 Heritage Group&Tour History 2019-201Planning Guide 2017.indd NPS 2/16/17 3:21 PM
new england Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum Boston, Massachusetts Actors, tea-throwing reenactments, high-tech interactive exhibits, authentic replica ships the Beaver and the Eleanor, and an award-winning multisensory film, Let It Begin Here, help group tours understand what happened on the night of Dec. 16, 1773. The attraction, owned and operated by Historic Tours of America, is dedicated to accurately reliving and representing a key time in history. 617-531-6241, bostonteapartyship.com Museum of Printing Haverhill, Massachusetts Using one of the world’s largest collections of printing and typesetting hardware and ephemera, the museum shows how printing changed in the last 200 years. Print- ing presses of all kinds are in the main gallery. Exhibits explain the transition from hand-setting individual sorts of foundry type to mechanized hot-metal typesetting. There are collections of phototypesetting machines, mimeographs, addressographs and typewriters. The museum is open every Saturday, year-round. Special tours are available. museumofprinting.org From top: Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum/Michael Blanchard Photography, iStock grouptourmagazine.com 25
new england Mashantucket Pequot Museum Old Sturbridge Village & Research Center Sturbridge, Massachusetts Mashantucket, Connecticut Old Sturbridge Village, the largest The Mashantucket Pequot Museum outdoor history museum in the North- & Research Center works to further the east, depicts a rural New England town knowledge and understanding of the of the 1830s. Authentically costumed richness and diversity of the indigenous historians and interpreters demonstrate cultures and societies of the United early 19th-century life in more than States and Canada. Exhibits and galleries 40 buildings, gardens and working showcase tribal cultures, science, the farms. Groups are welcome. Special arts and the abundance of local natural motorcoach parking is available with resources from the ice age to the present. easy drop-off and pick-up spots near the Options for groups include self-touring, village entrance. guided tours, enrichment programs, 508-347-0290, osv.org express lunch, VIP experiences/tours and expert speaker presentations. 860-396-6839, pequotmuseum.org Mystic Seaport Museum historic vessels, including four National Historic Landmark vessels. The most Mystic, Connecticut notable vessel is the 1841 whaleship Walk through a re-created New Charles W. Morgan, America’s oldest England coastal village to experience commercial ship still in existence. The firsthand from staff historians, story- maritime museum offers a variety of tellers, musicians and craftspeople what on-grounds group dining options, from it was like to earn one’s living from the a New England-style clambake to box sea. A collection of more than 2 mil- lunches. 860-572-5309, mysticseaport.org lion artifacts includes more than 500 26 Heritage & History 2019-20 Planning Guide Clockwise from top: Mashantucket Pequot Museum and Research Center, Old Sturbridge Village, Mystic Seaport Museum
new england WASHINGTO NT U N MO OG AY C R AILW Mount Washington Cog Railway Bretton Woods, New Hampshire A NATIONAL Celebrating its 150th anniversary in 2019, the Mount Washington Cog Railway HISTORIC ENGINEERING provides a narrated train ride to the summit of Mount Washington, the highest peak LANDMARK in the northeastern United States. The train ride averages about an hour each way, and passengers have 60 minutes to explore and take in the summit of Mount Wash- an AMAZING ADVENTURE to the top of NEW ENGLAND’S ington. See the White Mountains, up to five states, Canada and the Atlantic Ocean. HIGHEST PEAK! The railway’s season typically begins in May and runs through November. • 3-hr. round trip on eco-friendly 603-278-2256, thecog.com biodiesel or historic steam trains. • Courier’s Favorite Scenic Railroad • Cog Railway Museum at the Base • 150 years of operation in 2019! The World’s First mountain-climbing Cog Railway and the Only One east of the Rockies! Group Sales 603-278-2256 OPEN MAY- NOVEMBER • THECOG.COM Base Station Rd, Marshfield Station, NH (6 mi. from Rt. 302 & Bretton Woods, NH) T h e L o c k w o o d - M aT h e w s M a n s i o n M u s e u M A Registered National Historic Landmark ~ New Exhibit ~ FROM CORSETS TO SUFFRAGE: VICTORIAN WOMEN TRAILBLAZERS May 16 - Nov. 3, 2019 Head of Suffrage Parade, Washington D.C., 1913, LMMM Permanent Collection Strawbery Banke Museum Celebrating the Centennial of the Portsmouth, New Hampshire 19th Amendment to the Constitution and Women’s Right to Vote The 10-acre living history museum preserves the lifestyles and traditions of four Exhibition sponsored in part by: centuries of New Englanders. Groups see 40 buildings — most on their original sites Purchase Tour Tickets: LockwoodMathewsMansion.com — from the late 1600s to the mid-1950s. There also are heirloom gardens, traditional crafts and costumed role-players who portray the families who lived in the Puddle 2019 SEASON DISTINGUISHED Dock neighborhood over the years. Tours can be customized for groups. BENEFACTORS: 295 West Avenue . Norwalk, CT 06850 . (203)838-9799 603-433-1110, strawberybanke.org From top: Mount Washington Cog Railway, Strawbery Bank Museum grouptourmagazine.com 27
new england Old Slater Mill National Historic Landmark Pawtucket, Rhode Island Old Slater Mill National Historic Landmark is recognized internation- ally as the birthplace of the American Industrial Revolution. The 1793 Old Slater Mill was the first successful cotton spinning factory in America, founded by British immigrant Samuel Slater, Moses Brown and partners. The Old Slater Mill, the 1810 Wilkinson Mill and the 1758 Sylvanus Brown House are located on the banks of the lower Blackstone River. Guided tours are available. 401-725-8638, facebook.com/slater.mill Shelburne Museum Historic Deerfield other decorative arts on display in the authentic period houses and in the Flynt Shelburne, Vermont Deerfield, Massachusetts Center of Early New England Life. Visits Founded in 1947 by sugar heiress This outdoor museum interprets the can last from two hours to several days, and pioneering folk-art collector Electra history and culture of early New En- and Historic Deerfield’s tour coordinator Havemeyer Webb (1888–1960), Shel- gland and the Connecticut River Valley. individually designs all itineraries. Din- burne Museum is the largest art and Groups can tour 12 carefully preserved ing is available at the Deerfield Lunch history museum in northern New En- antique houses dating from 1730 to 1850 Box and 1884 Deerfield Inn. Groups gland. The museum is open year-round, and explore world-class collections of can shop at the Museum Gift Shop & with the Pizzagalli Center for Art and regional furniture, silver, textiles and Bookstore. 413-775-7132, historic-deerfield.org/tours Education and Webb Gallery featuring important American paintings by An- drew Wyeth, Winslow Homer, Grand- ma Moses and John Singleton Copley. Check out the steamboat Ticonderoga, hands-on activities and demonstrations. 802-985-3346, ext. 3142 shelburnemuseum.org 28 Heritage & History 2019-20 Planning Guide Clockwise from top: Valeria Zelaya, John Phelan, Shelburne Museum
new england 3 PLACES TO TAKE A CRUISE Mount Washington Cruises Laconia, New Hampshire Mount Washington Cruises, which dates to 1872, offers scenic cruises and sunset dinner dance cruises on Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire’s larg- est lake. The company’s fleet consists of the 230-foot M/S Mount Washington and two smaller vessels, the US Mail Boat Sophie C. and M/V Doris E. 888-843-6686, cruisenh.com Katahdin Cruises Greenville, Maine The primary exhibit of the Moosehead Marine Museum is the steamboat Katahdin. Affectionately called the Kate, the vessel, built in 1914, cruises daily on Moosehead Lake from late June through mid-October. 207-695-2716, katahdincruises.com Argia Mystic Cruises Mystic, Connecticut Book a cruise on Argia, the last commercial sailing ship in Mystic, Con- necticut. The two-masted gaff topsail schooner sails out of downtown Mystic from May 1 to mid-October. While groups can purchase tickets for public sail- ings, it’s usually cheaper to schedule a two-hour private charter at a flat rate. 860-536-0416, argiamystic.com Argia Mystic Cruises grouptourmagazine.com 29
All shook up 2020 marks the King’s 85th birthday By Kelsey Smith Living room, Graceland H e may have left the building, but not without leaving behind a legacy. El- vis Presley, the “King of Rock and Roll,” • Elvis made his performance debut at Shreveport Municipal or more simply, “the King,” is regarded Auditorium in Shreve- as one of the most significant cultural port, Louisiana, in icons of the 20th century. October of 1954. Elvis was a pioneer of rockabilly, an upbeat fusion of country music and • Known worldwide rhythm and blues. He landed on top of as “The Birthplace of the charts, making him a leading figure Rock ‘n’ Roll,” Sun of rock and roll. Forty-two years after Studio in Memphis, his death, Elvis is still almost as relevant Tennessee, is where as he was during his prime, influencing Elvis first recorded. today’s music fans and artists. The year 2020 commemorates what would have been the King’s 85th birth- day, and attractions across the Southeast are celebrating him in a special way. Johnnie’s Drive In From top: Elvis Presley Enterprises, Inc., 30 Heritage & History 2019-20 Planning Guide Tupelo CVB
exhibit and entertainment complex Graceland as they experience his roots, influ- Memphis, Tennessee ences and artistry through hun- There’s no better place to explore dreds of artifacts, including gold and celebrate Elvis’ life, legacy and and platinum records, jumpsuits career than at his estate. and memorabilia. “Each year, Graceland honors “Also, fans visiting Graceland in the birthday of Elvis Presley with a 2019 and beyond can look forward multiday celebration,” said Christian to experiencing live shows and Ross, public relations and marketing concerts as part of Graceland Live, a specialist at Graceland. “Our annual partnership between Graceland and birthday celebration is always an Live Nation,” Ross said. “Our state- unforgettable experience that attracts of-the-art Graceland Soundstage and guests from all over world. the Graceland Guest House Theatre “While plans for the King of will host an amazing array of artists Rock and Roll’s 85th birthday are guaranteed to excite music lovers.” still underway, visitors can expect to Visitors can extend their stay see more special guests and friends in Memphis by checking in at The Graceland of Elvis, fan club celebrations, an Guest House at Graceland, a 450- exciting birthday bash, and the room AAA Four Diamond room annual Elvis Birthday Proclamation resort hotel. Ceremony from city leaders.” “Even though Elvis passed away Inside the mansion, which 42 years ago, fans — young and old doubles as a National Historic — say they can still feel his presence Landmark, groups can see the living whenever they visit,” Ross said. room, Elvis’ parents’ bedroom, TV “That’s what we’re trying to do with room, pool room, the kitchen, the Graceland and Elvis Presley’s Mem- famous Jungle Room, his father’s phis — preserve the King’s legacy office, the Trophy Building and the for future generations.” Meditation Garden. Groups can fully immerse Graceland 901-332-3322 themselves in Elvis’ life and career graceland.com at the new Elvis Presley’s Memphis Elvis Presley Birthplace sales director at the Tupelo Convention age in Tupelo. Tupelo, and Visitors Bureau. “Tupelo loves to Major stops include Tupelo Hard- Mississippi celebrate its favorite native son.” ware Company, where Elvis purchased The commemoration of what would his first guitar; and Johnnie’s Drive In, It all began in the small, charming have been Elvis’ 85th birthday will kick Tupelo’s oldest restaurant where Elvis town of Tupelo, Mississippi, on Jan. 8, off with a New Year’s Eve celebration loved to eat. 1935. Elvis Presley was born in a two- featuring an Elvis-centric giveaway. “Elvis continues to impact Tupelo room house built by his father, grandfa- Events will continue throughout the as fans from around the world travel to ther and uncle, and grew up in Tupelo week leading up to Elvis’ birthday, this small, Southern town to experience before moving to Memphis at age 13. including arts activities, an unveiling his birthplace,” Bradford Curlee said. “At the Elvis Presley Birthplace, and a birthday party at the Elvis Presley “Just like Elvis dreamed and rose to groups can experience the beginning of Birthplace. fame, in Tupelo, people still believe that Elvis’ story by visiting the humble home Groups can dig even deeper into anything is possible.” n where he was born, a museum dedicated Elvis’ life in Tupelo on the Elvis’ Tupelo to his life and the original Assembly of Driving Tour or Elvis’ Tupelo Self-Guid- Tupelo CVB God Church where he was deeply influ- ed Bicycle Tour that explores 13 places 662-841-6521 enced by gospel music,” said Jennie Brad- that influenced a young Elvis coming of tupelo.net ford Curlee, public relations/international From top: Elvis Presley Enterprises, Inc., Tupelo CVB grouptourmagazine.com 31
Southeast UNCOVER THE SOUTHEAST’S STORIED PAST Known for its diverse cuisine, rich Nashville, Tenn. history and unique musical styles, the Southeast is a cultural hotbed. The Southeast’s historical and cul- tural development was heavily influ- enced by slave labor on plantations and the legacy of racial tension magnified by the Civil War and Reconstruction era. Because of this, the region became the home of many notable civil rights leaders during the American civil rights movement in the 1950s and ‘60s. Civil War sites, historic planta- tions, birth homes of famous names and musical hot spots are just a few of the attractions groups encounter when exploring the Southeast. From Nashville’s famous hot chicken and world-renowned music scene to Loui- siana’s Cajun and Creole heritage, the Southeast has it all. Group Tour_StCharles_HErt&Hist _19.pdf 1 4/15/19 12:21 PM C M Y CM MY CY CMY K 32 Heritage & History 2019-20 Planning Guide
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