Robert Church Park

Robert R. Church Park is a 7.68-acre public park located in downtown Memphis, Tennessee. The park holds significant historical importance as it was established in 1899 by Robert R. Church Sr., the first African American millionaire in the South. It was the first park in Memphis that was open to African American citizens during the era of segregation.

The park features a central monument dedicated to Robert R. Church Sr., which includes a bronze bust of Church atop a granite pedestal. Surrounding the monument are columns that outline the footprint of the original Church Park Auditorium, a 2,000-seat venue that once stood on the site and hosted notable speakers such as Booker T. Washington and President Theodore Roosevelt.

Robert R. Church Park serves as a green space in the urban environment of downtown Memphis, providing a place for relaxation and recreation. The park has undergone renovations over the years to maintain its facilities and preserve its historical significance. It continues to be an important landmark in Memphis, often used for community events and as a gathering place for locals and visitors alike.

The park's location near Beale Street makes it easily accessible to tourists exploring the musical and cultural heritage of Memphis. It stands as a testament to the contributions of African Americans to the city's history and development, serving as both a recreational space and a site of historical remembrance.