Orange Mound: A Historic African American Community in Memphis
Orange Mound, located in southeastern Memphis, Tennessee, holds a unique place in American history. It was the first neighborhood in the United States to be built by and for African Americans. Let’s explore its remarkable journey:
Origins and Name:
Orange Mound emerged on the grounds of the former John George Deaderick Plantation. The name “Orange Mound” comes from the Osage Orange shrubs that grew there.
In the 1890s, a white real estate developer named Izey Eugene Meacham divided the land into a segregated subdivision specifically for African Americans. The lots were affordable, selling for less than one hundred dollars each.
Symbol of Status and Community Pride:
During the Jim Crow era, Orange Mound became an important symbol of status among black Memphians. Despite its inferior conditions compared to white neighborhoods, it thrived as a close-knit community.
The neighborhood originally consisted of 982 shotgun houses, providing homes for laborers, domestic workers, and their families.
Orange Mound, located in southeastern Memphis, Tennessee, holds a unique place in American history. It was the first neighborhood in the United States to be built by and for African Americans. Let’s explore its remarkable journey:
Origins and Name:
Orange Mound emerged on the grounds of the former John George Deaderick Plantation. The name “Orange Mound” comes from the Osage Orange shrubs that grew there.
In the 1890s, a white real estate developer named Izey Eugene Meacham divided the land into a segregated subdivision specifically for African Americans. The lots were affordable, selling for less than one hundred dollars each.
Symbol of Status and Community Pride:
During the Jim Crow era, Orange Mound became an important symbol of status among black Memphians. Despite its inferior conditions compared to white neighborhoods, it thrived as a close-knit community.
The neighborhood originally consisted of 982 shotgun houses, providing homes for laborers, domestic workers, and their families.
Cultural and Civic Contributions:
By the 1970s, Orange Mound had one of the largest concentrations of African Americans in the U.S., rivaling even Harlem.
Despite challenges such as poverty, residents raised sons and daughters who went on to become influential members of society. Business owners, lawyers, doctors, and teachers emerged from this vibrant community.
Prominent churches like Mt. Pisgah C.M.E. Church, Mount Moriah Missionary Baptist Church, and Beulah Baptist Church played a role in the Civil Rights Movement, supporting activists.
Musical Legacy:
Orange Mound has a rich musical heritage. Blues legends B.B. King and Bukka White performed some of their earliest gigs here.
The creators of the “Memphis Sound,” including Willie Mitchell and Carl Cunningham, honed their talents in the Melrose Band.
By the 1970s, Orange Mound had one of the largest concentrations of African Americans in the U.S., rivaling even Harlem.
Despite challenges such as poverty, residents raised sons and daughters who went on to become influential members of society. Business owners, lawyers, doctors, and teachers emerged from this vibrant community.
Prominent churches like Mt. Pisgah C.M.E. Church, Mount Moriah Missionary Baptist Church, and Beulah Baptist Church played a role in the Civil Rights Movement, supporting activists.
Musical Legacy:
Orange Mound has a rich musical heritage. Blues legends B.B. King and Bukka White performed some of their earliest gigs here.
The creators of the “Memphis Sound,” including Willie Mitchell and Carl Cunningham, honed their talents in the Melrose Band.
Athletic Achievements:
Orange Mound produced outstanding athletes. Former Memphis State basketball coach Larry Finch, Denver Broncos’ Tori Noel, and Olympic gold track athletes Sheila Nichols and Rochelle Stevens all have roots in this community.
Education and Revitalization:
Education remains a source of pride. Schools like Dunbar Elementary and Melrose High School have shaped generations of students.
In the early 21st century, Orange Mound experienced revitalization efforts. Organizations like the Orange Mound Collaborative, S.M.A.R.T., and the Orange Mound Community Garden contributed to its renewal.
Political Leaders and Hip-Hop Scene:
Harper Brewer, the first black speaker pro tem of the Tennessee House of Representatives, calls Orange Mound home.
The neighborhood also boasts a vibrant underground hip-hop/rap scene, with artists like 8 Ball and MJG carrying on the musical tradition.
Orange Mound produced outstanding athletes. Former Memphis State basketball coach Larry Finch, Denver Broncos’ Tori Noel, and Olympic gold track athletes Sheila Nichols and Rochelle Stevens all have roots in this community.
Education and Revitalization:
Education remains a source of pride. Schools like Dunbar Elementary and Melrose High School have shaped generations of students.
In the early 21st century, Orange Mound experienced revitalization efforts. Organizations like the Orange Mound Collaborative, S.M.A.R.T., and the Orange Mound Community Garden contributed to its renewal.
Political Leaders and Hip-Hop Scene:
Harper Brewer, the first black speaker pro tem of the Tennessee House of Representatives, calls Orange Mound home.
The neighborhood also boasts a vibrant underground hip-hop/rap scene, with artists like 8 Ball and MJG carrying on the musical tradition.
In summary, Orange Mound stands as a testament to resilience, creativity, and community spirit. From its humble beginnings to its present-day vibrancy, it continues to shape Memphis and inspire generations of residents1.
Now, let’s delve into the fascinating story of Anthony “Amp” Elmore, a true pioneer in Orange Mound’s film history:
Anthony “Amp” Elmore: The Father of Independent Filmmaking in Memphis:
Elmore’s journey began when he moved to Orange Mound in 1972, residing first at 970 Semmes Street and later at 1035 Semmes Street.
In 1979, Elmore promoted the first kickboxing bouts in Orange Mound at the Olivet Baptist Church.
He became the first person to bring ESPN to Memphis in 1981, elevating the city’s sports scene.
On May 29, 1982, Elmore achieved a remarkable feat by winning the Professional Karate Association World Heavyweight title, defeating Demetrious “Oak Tree” Edwards. His prowess earned him the nickname “Muhammad Ali of Kickboxing.”
Now, let’s delve into the fascinating story of Anthony “Amp” Elmore, a true pioneer in Orange Mound’s film history:
Anthony “Amp” Elmore: The Father of Independent Filmmaking in Memphis:
Elmore’s journey began when he moved to Orange Mound in 1972, residing first at 970 Semmes Street and later at 1035 Semmes Street.
In 1979, Elmore promoted the first kickboxing bouts in Orange Mound at the Olivet Baptist Church.
He became the first person to bring ESPN to Memphis in 1981, elevating the city’s sports scene.
On May 29, 1982, Elmore achieved a remarkable feat by winning the Professional Karate Association World Heavyweight title, defeating Demetrious “Oak Tree” Edwards. His prowess earned him the nickname “Muhammad Ali of Kickboxing.”
The Birth of “The Contemporary Gladiator”:
Inspired by Spike Lee’s movie “She’s Gotta Have It,” Elmore re-enrolled in college, took typing and English courses, and penned a movie script about his life.
Elmore assembled a Black movie crew from Chicago, transforming his Orange Mound home into a Hollywood film set.
In 1987, he began filming his groundbreaking movie, which he aptly named “The Contemporary Gladiator.”
Unbeknownst to Elmore, he was the first independent filmmaker in Memphis film history.
Inspired by Spike Lee’s movie “She’s Gotta Have It,” Elmore re-enrolled in college, took typing and English courses, and penned a movie script about his life.
Elmore assembled a Black movie crew from Chicago, transforming his Orange Mound home into a Hollywood film set.
In 1987, he began filming his groundbreaking movie, which he aptly named “The Contemporary Gladiator.”
Unbeknownst to Elmore, he was the first independent filmmaker in Memphis film history.
“The Contemporary Gladiator”: A Pioneering Kickboxing Film
In the heart of Orange Mound, Memphis, a transformative cinematic journey unfolded. Anthony “Amp” Elmore, a visionary filmmaker, created history with his 1988 release, “The Contemporary Gladiator.” Here’s the inspiring tale:
Orange Mound’s Legacy:
Orange Mound, a historic African American community, provided the backdrop for Elmore’s groundbreaking film. Its rich cultural heritage and resilience set the stage for something extraordinary.
The Birth of a Vision:
Elmore’s passion for kickboxing and storytelling converged. Inspired by Spike Lee’s work, he embarked on a mission to share his own life’s narrative.
Armed with determination, Elmore re-enrolled in college, honed his writing skills, and crafted a script that would change the course of Memphis film history.
In the heart of Orange Mound, Memphis, a transformative cinematic journey unfolded. Anthony “Amp” Elmore, a visionary filmmaker, created history with his 1988 release, “The Contemporary Gladiator.” Here’s the inspiring tale:
Orange Mound’s Legacy:
Orange Mound, a historic African American community, provided the backdrop for Elmore’s groundbreaking film. Its rich cultural heritage and resilience set the stage for something extraordinary.
The Birth of a Vision:
Elmore’s passion for kickboxing and storytelling converged. Inspired by Spike Lee’s work, he embarked on a mission to share his own life’s narrative.
Armed with determination, Elmore re-enrolled in college, honed his writing skills, and crafted a script that would change the course of Memphis film history.
The Making of “The Contemporary Gladiator”:
Elmore assembled a talented Black movie crew from Chicago, transforming his Orange Mound home into a Hollywood-style film set.
Cameras rolled, capturing the raw energy of kickboxing, the spirit of Orange Mound, and Elmore’s personal triumphs.
Unbeknownst to Elmore, he was pioneering independent filmmaking in Memphis, breaking barriers and defying norms.
The Premiere and Beyond:
In 1988, “The Contemporary Gladiator” premiered, marking a historic moment. Elmore’s film showcased the power of storytelling, resilience, and community.
Despite challenges and marginalization, Elmore’s legacy endured. His film became a beacon of inspiration for generations to come.
A Call for Recognition:
Elmore’s journey didn’t end with the credits. He fought for justice, seeking acknowledgment as the “Father of Independent Filmmaking in Memphis.”
His film wasn’t just about kickboxing; it was about identity, pride, and the unyielding spirit of Orange Mound.
Elmore assembled a talented Black movie crew from Chicago, transforming his Orange Mound home into a Hollywood-style film set.
Cameras rolled, capturing the raw energy of kickboxing, the spirit of Orange Mound, and Elmore’s personal triumphs.
Unbeknownst to Elmore, he was pioneering independent filmmaking in Memphis, breaking barriers and defying norms.
The Premiere and Beyond:
In 1988, “The Contemporary Gladiator” premiered, marking a historic moment. Elmore’s film showcased the power of storytelling, resilience, and community.
Despite challenges and marginalization, Elmore’s legacy endured. His film became a beacon of inspiration for generations to come.
A Call for Recognition:
Elmore’s journey didn’t end with the credits. He fought for justice, seeking acknowledgment as the “Father of Independent Filmmaking in Memphis.”
His film wasn’t just about kickboxing; it was about identity, pride, and the unyielding spirit of Orange Mound.
Teaching Black History:
Elmore’s story deserves a place in classrooms. It’s not just about filmmaking; it’s about resilience, creativity, and breaking down barriers.
Let’s amplify Elmore’s voice, ensuring that his legacy reaches beyond America—to the world.
Anthony “Amp” Elmore’s film isn’t just a footnote; it’s a chapter in the global narrative of Black excellence. Let’s celebrate it, teach it, and honor the spirit of Orange Moun
Elmore’s story deserves a place in classrooms. It’s not just about filmmaking; it’s about resilience, creativity, and breaking down barriers.
Let’s amplify Elmore’s voice, ensuring that his legacy reaches beyond America—to the world.
Anthony “Amp” Elmore’s film isn’t just a footnote; it’s a chapter in the global narrative of Black excellence. Let’s celebrate it, teach it, and honor the spirit of Orange Moun
