Priscilla Presley Reveals Her Pride in Keeping Graceland in the Family
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Priscilla Presley, the actress and businesswoman, recently expressed her utmost pride in the preservation of Graceland within the family. Graceland, the iconic home of the late Elvis Presley, holds a special place in Priscilla’s heart, as highlighted in her memoir, Softly as I Leave You: Life After Elvis.
In a conversation with Budd Mishkin at 92Y in New York City on Wednesday, Sept. 24, Priscilla, 80, shared her journey of taking over Graceland after Elvis’s passing in 1977. Despite facing advice from many to sell the property, she stood firm in her decision to keep it within the family. Priscilla reminisced about the challenges she faced in managing Graceland, which was not generating income at the time, and how she took a significant risk in transforming it into what it is today.
Graceland, once under Elvis’s stewardship, transitioned to Priscilla’s care upon his demise. Priscilla noted the learning curve she underwent, navigating legal and financial matters to ensure the property’s sustainability. Her determination to uphold Elvis’s legacy by preserving Graceland against external pressures to sell stands as a testament to her unwavering commitment.
Reflecting on the pivotal moment, Priscilla shared, “I think I am most proud of the fact that Graceland became what it is today because I took a chance.” Amidst scepticism and naysayers questioning her decision, Priscilla stood firm in her resolve, demonstrating resilience and determination in honouring Elvis’s memory through Graceland’s preservation.
Despite external pressures to sell Graceland, Priscilla remained resolute in her vision for the iconic property. Collaborating with Morgan Maxfield, a key figure in Graceland’s transformation, Priscilla sought to prepare the estate for public access. Maxfield, who tragically passed away in a plane crash before Graceland’s opening in 1982, played a crucial role in realising Priscilla’s dream of sharing Graceland with the world.
The enduring legacy of Graceland extends beyond its walls, with over 600,000 visitors annually flocking to experience the preserved home of Elvis Presley. Priscilla highlighted the authenticity of Graceland, emphasising that the property remains unchanged from Elvis’s time, providing visitors with a glimpse into the life of the music icon.
Priscilla’s unwavering dedication to preserving Graceland has solidified its status as the second-most-visited home in the United States, after the White House. The estate holds sentimental value as the final resting place of Elvis, his parents, daughter Lisa Marie, and grandson Benjamin Keough, further underscoring its significance in preserving the Presley family legacy.
In light of Priscilla’s profound commitment to Graceland’s preservation, her memoir Softly as I Leave You: Life After Elvis serves as a poignant reflection on her journey in upholding Elvis’s memory and ensuring the enduring legacy of Graceland for generations to come.