Walking in Memphis

We were delighted to be staying in the historic Peabody Hotel in downtown Memphis. This is perhaps the last of the grand old hotels in the South and in addition to 5-star service and accommodations is noted for it’s iconic red neon roof sign, the stunning marble lobby, the hand-painted glass ceilings, the lobby bar Mint Juleps and, of course, the Peabody Ducks. Every day at 11am, the Duckmaster, resplendent in his crimson frock coat and walking stick, escorts the resident ducks from their rooftop accommodation. He guides them into the lift, down to the lobby and then across 50ft of red carpet, up some steps and into the massive carved fountain in the center of the lobby. This is all undertaken to the blaring backdrop of John Philip Sousa's ''King Cotton March'' and witnessed by scores of guests and tourists. , The current Duckmaster, Anthony Petrina, is only the fifth ever since the ceremony began in the 1930’s. Six hours later, at 5pm he reverses the route and escorts his downy charges back to the roof watched by a different crowd, less kids but this time bolstered by besuited business folk enjoying a post-work cocktail. This quaint but bizarre ceremony is a must-see when visiting the city. (Lobby photo by Trey Clark)