On June 26, 1977, Elvis Presley performed before 17,000 fans at Market Square Arena in downtown Indianapolis. Two months later, Elvis Presley was dead and the Indianapolis show -- however good or bad it may have been -- entered American popular culture as Elvis last concert. MSA was demolished in 2001, but every year on the anniversary die-hard fans still gather at the site. Elvis appeared, in a gold and white jumpsuit and white boots, bounding onstage with energy that was a relief to everyone. At 42, Elvis was still heavy, but it didnt stop him from giving a performance in true Presley style. Less well-remembered is Presleys first Indianapolis performance. In 1955, the then-20-year-old Presley was part of a touring Grand Ole Opry show starring Hank Snow at the old Lyric Theater, in the 100 block of North Illinois Street. A year later, Presley was reported to have stopped at the Jones and Maley auto agency, 3421 E. Washington St., to have the two front wheels on his baby blue Cadillac balanced. Presleys car had girls names scratched into the paint, one observer said. In 2002, a plaque was dedicated at the corner of Alabama and Market Streets. The Taking Care of Presley Memorial Benefit Committee unveiled this marker at the site of the old Market Square Arena. The 58-inch tall granite marker has a bronze plaque complete with photo and inscription.
Posted on: Sun, 25 Jan 2015 13:00:01 +0000
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