Memphis is shining a light on Tom Lee, a local and national hero, as it prepares to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Lee’s legendary river rescue. Memphis River Parks Partnership invites the community to gather at Cossitt Library on May 8 at 2 p.m. for a Tom Lee Day celebration in honor of Lee, whose story continues to inspire generations.
This year’s event marks a special milestone in the ongoing “Tom Lee 100” celebration, a yearlong tribute to the Black man who, despite not being able to swim, rescued 32 people from a capsized steamboat in the mighty Mississippi River on May 8, 1925. One hundred years later, his selfless bravery still ripples through the heart of Memphis.
The afternoon will be filled with stories, creativity and community pride. One of the highlights is the announcement of winners of the fourth annual Tom Lee Poetry Contest, which drew a record 300 submissions from high school students across the city. University of Memphis professor, award-winning author and contest judge Marcus F. Wicker says poetry has a future in the hands of these students…