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Tom Lee: A Hero’s Legacy in Memphis

Mural honoring Tom Lee's heroism during the Mississippi River disaster

News Summary

Tom Lee is honored for his courageous rescue efforts during a riverboat disaster in 1925 on the Mississippi River. His actions saved 32 lives and earned him national recognition, leading to his deep involvement in the Memphis community. Despite facing challenges with his historical home and grave site, Lee’s legacy continues to resonate during the city’s 200th anniversary celebrations, reflecting a source of pride for many.

Memphis – Tom Lee, a heroic figure in Memphis history, is commemorated for his life-saving actions during a 1925 riverboat disaster on the Mississippi River. Lee, who lived at 923 N. Mansfield St. in the Klondike neighborhood, is best known for rescuing 32 people from the tragic incident involving the M.E. Norman riverboat, which capsized south of Memphis, resulting in the loss of 23 lives.

The disaster occurred on May 8, 1925, near Cow Island Bend, approximately 10 to 15 miles downstream from Memphis. While sailing back from Helena, Arkansas, Lee spotted the capsized vessel. Utilizing his boat, the Zev, he jumped into action, navigating perilous waters to save those stranded in the river. His courageous efforts did not end there; he remained at the scene throughout the night, assisting in the search for additional victims.

Following his bravery, Tom Lee became a reluctant celebrity. His heroism caught the attention of national media, and he was invited to meet President Calvin Coolidge at the White House. Lee received various awards and accolades for his actions on that fateful day. Despite his newfound fame, he expressed a desire for a stable home. Community members, recognizing his contributions, helped fund the acquisition of his house through the Memphis Engineers Club.

In the years that followed, Lee became an integral part of the Memphis community, working with the Sanitation Department until his retirement. He received a pension that was reported to be double the ordinary amount, reflecting the esteem in which he was held. Tom Lee passed away in 1952, and two years later, in 1954, a park was named in his honor – Tom Lee Park. In 2006, a bronze sculpture was erected within the park to further commemorate his heroic actions.

Currently, Lee’s former residence features a mural on its front, celebrating his legacy, but faces challenges of its own. A notice from the city’s code enforcement has deemed the home unsafe for occupancy, with the notice posted in December. This situation highlights ongoing concerns regarding the preservation of historical sites connected to the community’s heritage.

Tom Lee’s grave can be found in Mt. Carmel Cemetery in South Memphis. However, it often becomes obscured by overgrown grass and brush, a situation that has persisted due to the cemetery’s occasional neglect. The need for landscaping and regular maintenance has been recognized, as many graves, including that of Lee, require tending to honor the memories of those interred there.

Throughout Memphis’ 200th anniversary celebrations, Lee’s legacy was revisited, reinforcing his status as an iconic figure within the community narrative. For many descendants of Tom Lee, his story is not merely historical; it is a source of pride that has been passed down through generations, emphasizing the values of courage and community service.

As the community reflects on Tom Lee’s extraordinary life and contributions, it is clear that his impact continues to resonate. From his heroic rescue efforts to his lasting legacy honored in park dedications and memorials, Tom Lee remains a central figure in the tapestry of Memphis history.