Tomb Talks

A 3-part series on cemetery symbolism, epidemic disease, and death in Memphis.

Step inside Elmwood Cemetery after hours for Tomb Talks, a three-evening series exploring the stories, symbolism, and secrets of one of Memphis’s most historic landscapes.

On select Fridays, guests will gather for a featured program in the Chapel: part history, part storytelling. We will then convene outdoors for an optional, brief, 4-stop guided walk through the grounds at dusk.

Friday, July 17th, 2026: The Stories They Didn’t Bury, presented by Willy Bearden, an acclaimed storyteller and historian, who will demystify the legends found in Elmwood Cemetery. This presentation will last 40 minutes with an optional and brief walk to four monuments.

Friday, July 31st, 2026: Secrets in Stone, presented by Sheena Barnett, who will decode the symbolism found in the statuary found in Elmwood, a Victorian age cemetery, as well as mourning customs of that strange, murky time in world history. There will be a short walking tour to four incredible monuments after the presentation ends, optional to our guests.

Friday, August 7th, 2026: When Death Came to Memphis, by Kim Bearden, Elmwood Cemetery Executive Director. The yellow fever of 1878 destroyed Memphis in nearly every way. Citizens fled in terror, but some stayed behind and faced dire consequences. A short walk to the yellow fever section of Elmwood will follow this presentation.

Wine and snacks included.

Space is limited.

$22 per evening + fees. Use code TOMB10 for 10% off your purchase until 7/14.

*$30 at the door per event barring availability