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HJR 1560

Memorials, Recognition - Overton Park Shell, 90th anniversary -

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Gabby Salinas

The bill formally recognizes the Overton Park Shell’s 90-year cultural legacy and commitment to free public performances, honoring its history and community impact.

Signed by Senate Speaker
#memorials #recognition
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Bill Summary · HJR 1560

Summary: House Joint Resolution 1560 (HJR 1560) — Tennessee 114th General Assembly

Purpose

  • The bill honors and congratulates the Overton Park Shell on the occasion of its 90th anniversary.
  • It recognizes the historical significance of the Overton Park Shell as a cultural landmark in Memphis and Tennessee.

Key Provisions and Changes

  • Establishes formal recognition by the Tennessee General Assembly of the Overton Park Shell’s 90-year legacy.
  • Provides biographical and historical context in the resolution, including:
    • Construction in 1936 as a joint project of the City of Memphis and the Works Progress Administration (WPA) during the New Deal era.
    • Design by architect Max Furbringer.
    • Status as one of the few remaining original WPA band shells (out of 27 nationwide), highlighting its rarity and historical value.
    • Historical use as a community cultural hub in the 1930s–1940s, hosting orchestral concerts, light opera, and musicals.
    • Notable moment on July 30, 1954: Elvis Presley’s first paid concert performance opening for Slim Whitman, cited as a milestone in rock-and-roll history.
    • 1960s transition to the Memphis Arts Center and subsequent preservation campaign led by Noel Gilbert to prevent demolition.
    • Founding of Save Our Shell, Inc. in 1986 to support free public programs.
    • Renaming to Levitt Shell in 2007 after renovations funded by the Levitt Foundation.
    • Restoration to its historic name, Overton Park Shell, on March 3, 2022.
    • Ongoing mission to provide free music under the stars to the Memphis community.
  • States the intent to honor staff, supporters, and the broader community connected to the venue.

Who/What Would Be Affected

  • The Overton Park Shell and its historical status as a Tennessee cultural landmark.
  • No legal or regulatory changes to operations, funding, or governance are proposed; the bill is ceremonial in nature.
  • The resolution is a formal expression of appreciation by Tennessee’s lawmakers.

Procedural and Timeline Aspects

  • Sponsorship: Primary sponsor is Rep. Salinas, with a co-sponsor listed as Rep. Gabby Salinas.
  • Action history indicates introduction and placement on the House consent calendar for April 22, 2026.
  • The bill proceeds as a joint resolution, likely requiring approval by both the Tennessee House of Representatives and the Senate, and no immediate fiscal impact is indicated.

Overall Impact

  • Provides formal statewide recognition of the Overton Park Shell’s nine-decade legacy.
  • Serves as a commemorative acknowledgment of the venue’s role in Memphis and Tennessee culture, history, and community programming.
  • Highlights historical milestones and enduring commitment to free public performances.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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