Memphis commemorated a century since river worker Tom Lee's act of heroism, when he saved over 30 individuals from a capsized steamboat on the Mississippi River. Yesterday marked the hundredth anniversary of the event that transpired on May 8, 1925, with the city hosting various tributes to the man whose bravery is a staple of local history. Tom Lee, who could not swim, is remembered for his selfless risk-taking when he rescued 32 passengers after the steamship M.E. Norman overturned, as reported by Action News 5.
As part of the centennial celebrations, a historical marker is in the works to be placed in front of Lee's former home at 923 N. Mansfield St. in the Klondike neighborhood – though the residence itself has unfortunately been left abandoned. "We decided that we would honor Tom Lee in some form because of what he meant to the City of Memphis," Quincy Morris, Executive Director of Klondike Smokey City CDC, told Action News 5. The festivities will include a community event featuring live entertainment, food, and music at 1396 Jackson Avenue.
On the same note, WREG News Channel 3's programming at 3 with Alex Coleman highlighted the legacy of Lee, with Jasmine Stokes, Memphis River Park’s director of programming and engagement, stating, "100 years today, we still recognize his values of courage, selflessness, and humanity that he displayed." Stokes elaborated on the fourth annual Tom Lee poetry contest for high school students aimed at reflecting on what Lee's legacy signifies today. Additionally, a special "Keep it Tom Lee Campaign" seeks to encourage park visitors to share their personal connections with Tom Lee Park, according to WREG.
The centennial acknowledgement also includes the announcement of more than 300 Tom Lee Poetry Contest submissions from students, hosted by the Memphis River Parks Partnership at Cossitt Library. "We are celebrating this entire year, and Tom Lee Day is the pinnacle," said Art Davis, acting CEO of Memphis River Parks Partnership in a statement obtained by FOX13 Memphis. The park remains an active hub of commemoration, with the first-ever Tom Lee Mississippi River Gumption Revival Lantern parade scheduled for 901 day later this summer.
