July 2025
The Daisy Theater
Built in 1917 by Sam Zerilla, the Daisy Theater on Beale Street stands as a landmark of African American entertainment history. From the 1930s through the 1960s, it hosted live performances, movies, and local talent shows, becoming a cultural hub for the community. Although the theater fell into disrepair, it was fully restored in the 1980s, carefully preserving its original charm and historic character.
In the early morning hours of June 18, 2025, a devastating fire broke out at the historic theater. The blaze destroyed the iconic stage, dealing a painful blow to the treasured landmark. Despite the damage, owner Lucille Catron remains steadfast and hopeful. “She’s coming back. Oh, yes,” Catron declared. “That’s my life. That’s my joy.” Her words echo the enduring spirit of the Daisy and the community that surrounds it, determined to see the beloved venue rise again.
These images, depicting Beale Street before and after its restoration, are part of the John A. Elkington Beale Street Collection. This collection includes photographs, posters, memorabilia, audio recordings, newspaper and magazine articles, as well as redevelopment plans and proposals. Together, these materials document the history and revitalization of the Beale Street Historic District from the early 1980s to the present.
Upcoming Exhibit - July 2025
This July, the Special Collections department will debut a new exhibit exploring the evolution of stage production in Memphis. The exhibit will highlight key historical moments, influential figures, and the cultural significance of theater in the city. Through rare materials, photographs, and memorabilia, visitors will gain insight into how Memphis’s theatrical scene has shaped—and been shaped by—the community over time.
The Item of the Month is a specially selected item (book, photograph, ephemera, artifact, etc.) that members of the University Libraries' Special Collections Department would like to highlight each month to show the breadth and variety of their collections.
Text from this post is by Michelle Duerr, an Archives Assistant in Special Collections. She can be reached at mcororn@memphis.edu.
