Raleigh was an independent township and Shelby County’s first seat of government until it was absorbed by Memphis in 1866. Today, it’s a largely African-American, working class neighborhood with well-kept brick homes situated between its major streets — James Road, Stage Road, Austin Peay Highway, Covington Pike and Yale Road. Its business community is almost entirely retail with many fast food restaurants, big box stores and small businesses. Raleigh Egypt High School has one of the state’s best basketball programs while Craigmont High School offers the city’s only international studies program.
Craig Meek's way to the city's heart was through his stomach. His blog turned soon-to-be-released book examines the history of the city one plate of barbecue at a time and uses food as a launch pad for discussions on urban design, blight and community health.
For the eight members of the Philanthropic Black Women of Memphis, every April and May for the past decade has been the season of giving. The organization, which focuses on supporting programs or projects geared towards economic self-sufficiency, provides as much as $20,000 each year in grants to local causes.
Memphis was recently named the “Most Improved City for Cycling,” and this shift toward a bike-friendly culture was not accidental. Through coordinated strategy and investment of government, community and business, the Bluff City has seen a cycling awakening.
Welcome to the first issue of High Ground, a new online magazine that covers what's next for Memphis. Each week, we'll bring you news about the latest developments, from our growing tech scene to the hottest urban neighborhoods.
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