During the mid-19th century, Adams Avenue was known as “Millionaire’s Row,” home to many wealthy families who built luxurious Victorian-style homes. From railroad and riverboat tycoons to cotton magnates, bankers, merchants and politicians, they were influential in developing the economy of their city along with the art and culture of their community.
The families of Adams Avenue often socialized and enjoyed celebrations like this Gypsy Cotillion hosted in our parlor by James and Rowena Lee (center) in 1890. Over the years, as their children grew up and married into other wealthy Memphis families, many weddings were celebrated in the stately homes along Millionaire’s Row.