WHO WE ARE
For 40 years Heritage Tours has been committed to sharing stories of the African American history in Memphis, TN through guided tours. Our tours include Slave Haven, STAX Museum in Soulsville USA, W.C. Handy Park Lorraine Motel and other significant sites of Black Culture in the Memphis area.
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At Heritage Tours, we're all about helping you dive into the amazing world of Memphis! We're super proud to offer you these awesome cultural and historical sightseeing experiences that really dig into the incredible impact African Americans have had on this city. Our tours are like a backstage pass to Memphis's rich history, where we'll uncover stories, challenges, triumphs, and the fantastic cultural vibes that have made Memphis the lively and diverse place it is today. Join us for an adventure that's all about celebrating the incredible heritage of African Americans in this amazing city!
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Our team of experienced historians and tour guides are passionate about educating our visitors, students, educators and all Memphians on the rich history of African Americans in Memphis. We are dedicated to providing an engaging and informative experience for all of our guests.
OUR TEAM
Elaine Lee Turner
FOUNDER & PRESIDENT
Elaine serves as director of Slave Haven Underground Railroad Museum and the director of the W. C. Handy Memphis Home & Museum on Beale Street. In 1997 Heritage Tours established the W. C. Handy Heritage Awards which pays tribute to the many outstanding Memphis musicians who have contributed to our musical heritage and to keep the legacy of W. C, Handy alive.
Elaine Lee Turner has served the Memphis community in various capacities as an educator, a civil rights activist, an entrepreneur and a historian.
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Having spent 15 years in the teaching profession, she decided to pursue other endeavors. Her interest in history inspired her to launch her own business. Realizing that many of our youth do not know their rich history and lack motivation and pride in their own heritage, she conceived the idea of developing tours that would share this history with them simply touring their own city and teaching them about their past. In 1983, she along with her sister Joan, opened. Heritage Tours, the first African American oriented tour company in the state of Tennessee, with some authorities in the tourism industry crediting Heritage Tours as being the first of its kind in the United States. In developing the tour company, she truly believed that the story of African Americans was a story that needed to be told, especially to our youth and that the vision for incorporating this history into a business was indeed divinely inspired. Over the past 40 years, the interest in African American heritage has grown tremendously and the tours have attracted visitors from all over the world.
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About the TEAM
Our team at Heritage Tours is a dedicated and passionate group of individuals committed to providing enriching and educational experiences for our guests. With a shared love for history, culture, and storytelling, we come together to bring the past to life and create unforgettable journeys.
Our team includes:
Experienced, Knowledgeable Guides who are well-versed in the history and culture of the locations we explore. They are skilled storytellers who can captivate audiences of all ages, making each tour a memorable experience.
Cultural Enthusiasts who are all enthusiastic about preserving and sharing the rich heritage of the places we visit. Whether it's African American history, civil rights, or local culture, our team is deeply committed to promoting cultural awareness and appreciation.
As Logistics Experts, we are behind the scenes, ensuring that every aspect of your tour runs smoothly. From scheduling to transportation and accommodations, they work tirelessly to make your journey hassle-free.
As Customer Service Specialists, we take pride in providing exceptional customer service. Our team is here to answer your questions, address your concerns, and make your tour experience as enjoyable as possible.
We are History Buffs who believe that understanding the past is key to shaping a better future. Our passion for history drives our commitment to delivering informative and thought-provoking tours.
And finally, we are Community Advocates who value the communities we visit and strive to support local businesses and initiatives wherever we go. We believe in giving back to the places that share their stories with us.
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Our team's shared mission is to offer tours that not only educate but also inspire a deeper connection to history and culture. We look forward to welcoming you on our tours and sharing the fascinating stories of the places we explore.