Withers Collection Museum & Gallery

I'm not sure that "charming" is the word I'd use to describe this historically important museum. "Heartrending," yes. "Awe-inspiring," yes. "Charming," not so much. The photos on the walls are among the 1.8 million Mr. Withers took over the years documenting the Civil Rights movement, yet another example of man's inhumanity to man. I followed the docent's recommendation to start at the back of the room and spiral around, and may I just admit that I was relieved the photos are B&W - they're brutal enough and my imagination filled in the rest. By the time I made it halfway down the first wall I was in tears, and when I reached the photos of the Little Rock Nine with the National Guard in the background I lost it, especially as there were National Guard personnel in the street outside (along with FBI, ICE, city police, state police, IRS-CI, etc.). The lovely docent (with whom I bonded over our shared history of public school education), reached into her desk and brought out a roll of TP to staunch my tears. (I'm welling up just at the memory.) Thankfully, farther on in the exhibit are photos of musicians including James Brown, Otis Redding, The King & BB King, and many more. (Still didn't completely shake my melancholy from the previous photos, though.) This place should be on every school's field trip schedule - haven't checked to see if anyone's made a documentary about the man and his extraordinary body of work, but if not, there should be. This is our history as Americans, and some of it is ugly, ugly, ugly, but it doesn't mean it should be forgotten; someone wiser than me once said, "those who do not learn from the mistakes of history are doomed to repeat them." (Ending on a slightly lighter note, Bill Withers is distantly related and the docent played "Lean On Me" especially for me as I walked through the space.) Entry is donation only, and prints of the photos are for sale. The location is on the extremely popular Beale Street, so there's no excuse not to go.

Great place to visit! There is an amazing collection of photographs here that captures very important and intriguing history. Definitely support this place while you’re in town. Plus, it’s directly on Beale Street.

Very moving and powerful. Beautiful photos of a tough subject. It is very important that the world has these so we do not forget. Staff was very friendly and you can purchase prints.

absolutely striking and breathtaking photography and museum. documents the civil rights movement from a prominent black photographer at the time and is insanely moving. can’t even put it into words; just go. and it’s worth any donation you have. (moving from social importance to business) BUT i planned on giving $10-$20 per person as a donation when i arrived , but the lady at the front was remarkably forceful about taking my money (and honestly looking back i would have given more). but the lady at the entrance insisted i give a certain amount of money before entering …… which is illegal for a nonprofit to do. i used to run a nonprofit and if people didn’t want to pay, then so be it despite how important or recreational i thought our facility was - if they choose to take advantage then that’s on them. she would not let us enter unless we paid a certain amount. i understood the importance of the place and reveled in its history but nonetheless left with a sense of forced goodwill. i don’t like that - i planned to contribute more than what she asked regardless. but i asked about donation and she said i couldn’t enter unless i donated x amount. ?? i was going to give more than that but why treat visitors / patrons who are genuinely trying to learn and grow with such brashness and distain ? you should go but you should also check someone who forces you to give more money than you are able or willing ….. when you already planned on giving more. just rude. loved the museum tho but their focus on extorting poor people who want to learn and grow has GOT to be checked.

Excellent collection. Donate of your choosing for entry. Definitely worth a stop in. 1 large gallery space with additional spaces in the back. Great descriptions to provide context and nice staff - thank you for all the info Antonio and Isaiah!

A beautiful and moving museum and gallery. It was a privilege to view these photographs, and the staff was welcoming and knowledgeable. A can’t miss place to visit in Memphis.

Huge collection of BW photos. Nothing I cared to purchase; had the feel of “photographer’s second /third choice.” Some very interesting historical figures. The hostess was preoccupied with a personal crisis so I can’t speak to friendliness.

Excellent experience. The photos are very moving and the staff very informative. Free entry but I recommend dropping them some cash for all their hard work. So glad we went and checked it out.

Walking down (or up?) Beale Street on a Saturday afternoon I just happened to notice the Museum & Gallery with a modest sign on the door that said, "Pay What You Wish Today." I was not previously aware of Dr. Earnest C. Withers and his iconic photographs documenting the Civil Rights Movement, but when I poked my head in to check it out, I immediately knew it was worth an in-depth look and I beckoned my traveling companion (a talented photographer in his own right) to join me in stopping by. As I previously mentioned, though I never heard of Withers, I quickly realized that I've seen some of his most famous photos in other museums, documentary films, and history books. Beyond those few examples, I was impressed by the hundreds of photographs capturing both important figures and events in the Civil Rights Movement. Withers was a truly talented photographer with unprecedented access to people and events, and a great eye for capturing frames that tell an important story. I'd recommend stopping in whether it's "Pay Whatever Day" or not. I was happy to make a generous contribution. (BTW -- you can see more of Withers' work at the National Civil Rights Museum -- another five star venue -- reviewed separately).

UPDATED! Tonight, Rosalind Withers called me and was heartfelt in her apology. Her team will be retrained, and I am told this won't happen again. I am updating my review because of her response and guarantee people with disabilities are welcome at this important museum. Don't go here!!!! They discriminate against people with disabilities. I am disabled and supported by a service dog. I was refused entry. When I tried to explain the ticket, the person became verbally aggressive. I stepped out. I cleared my nerves because her behavior rattled me. I tried again, and she took her mask off and got in my face. I left. Shaking and in tears.

Before you go party on Beale street you have to visit this museum. The photographs from MLKs personal photographer are amazing. It will really give you a reality check and have emotions going high just looking at the many different things that took place not too long ago. It's a small entry fee and it was worth it. The people inside are nice and will answer any questions you may have. I just so happened to walk by and not notice it until I took a second step near it on our way leaving from Beale. So glad I spotted it as I learned so much about how Beale st is also so full of history.

LOVED my tour here. Simply popped in to check something else out besides the bars on Beale street. Was warmly greeted by volunteer Charles, who provided a detailed explanation of Mr Withers and the art that was displayed. Truly captivating to hear his story and witness a part of his life through his lens. I'm so glad to have spent the time eyeing his work. Thank you!!! I will HIGHLY recommend to my colleagues while they are in the local area visiting.

(Long overdue review) After a long morning exploring the city, I wasn't quite "satisfied" so I started at the end of Beale St. on the trek back to my hotel. Their sign immediately caught my attention and I decided to stop in. I was greeted by a Ms. V and it immediately felt like home. She was very kind and familial as she took her time explaining every question I had while telling me a handful of interesting stories. Photos of the early civil rights movement along with athletes and musicians, lined the walls throughout the studio. Early photos of Sam Cooke, Helen Washington, The Memphis 13, Amira Baraka, and Aretha Franklin are some that stood out to me. There's also an informative video in the main room that everyone should check out before perusing the plethora of artwork. The admission is free but donations are accepted. There are also photos for purchase in the rear of the gallery. If you are visiting, make this your first stop.

One of the best free experiences of my life. Not only did I learn a ton of information I hadn't known before I entered the museum, I also got to see pictures not available many other places. This museum gives you a look at Beale Street before it became the party street it is today. A lot of history around Memphis. I'd take anyone in Memphis to experience this. There are dozens of pictures and whatever is on the wall is for sale, but you can not take pictures of the pictures with your phones.

The Withers Collection was one of the best things my husband and I did when we were visiting Memphis for the weekend! It's a gallery of photographs taken by local photojournalist Ernest Withers. The building is Withers' last working studio, and it's right in the heart of Beale Street. Withers passed away in 2007, and this old studio of his is now a museum dedicated to his important work (and gallery because you can purchase prints of any of his photographs). He took photographs of so many important events in American history and had amazing access to important historical figures (due to close relationships with civil rights icons like MLK and Medgar Evers and James Meredith, all shown in photographs in the gallery)! From the Montgomery bus boycott to Negro League Baseball games to the Emmett Till trial to the Sanitation Worker's Strike in Memphis and Memphis blues and soul musicians, Withers captured stunning photographs of incredibly important historic and cultural moments. They have a short video that tells Withers' story, and a staff that is more than willing to give you additional information about Withers or any of his photographs. Their hours are great (open late for those people who might want to wander in after spending some time on Beale Street), and on certain days they allow you for a donation of your choosing. If you're in Memphis for a tourist weekend (or especially if you live there), you should check out the Withers Collection Museum! It's a fascinating and important stop if you're interesting in learning about the history and culture of Memphis!

Considering a lot of these issues are still prevalent today it was eye opening to see the beginnings of the Civil Rights Movement in pictures. Emmett Till's murder, funeral and the subsequent trial are all captured in photos here, this happened in 1955 and today we are still discussing why Black Lives Matter. There is a collection of photos from Dr Martin Luther King , the day of his assassination, the boycotts, the marches and a lot of candid photos. There are photos of the Negro Baseball League, greats like Jackie Robinson and Satchel Paige. Photos from a lot of the games played in Memphis. There are also photos of the musicians who started in Memphis or came thru Memphis on their rise to fame. This is definitely a must see exhibit.

Stumbled (not literally, although that is certainly possible on Beale Street) into this place and it is definitely worth a stop. Fantastic black and white photographs portraying the Negro Baseball League, Martin Luther King Jr., et al. Aside from the historical significance of many of the photographs, as artwork they are very moving. No admission cost, just donations. Certainly worth seeing and adding some money to its coffers.

My mind was blown. Please stop what you're doing and visit this collection. Cici, our docent, was incredible and truly made the visit enlightening and so special. Fit for all ages, this collection is an essential piece of American history that cannot be forgotten and was definitely omitted from my public school education. I'm so grateful to have stumbled upon it. This gallery is truly a gem in Memphis. Please donate if you can. Its helps them expand the collection as they continue to process the 1.3 million photos patiently waiting in storage.

I stopped in here while I was walking on Beale St waiting for my wife and baby girl to wake up from their naps. What I found inside was a massive collection of amazing photography, many of the images I was familiar with but was unfamiliar with the artist who created them. Not only that, but while looking at a shot of some of the early black MLB players, I noticed one was unidentified and I was able to give a positive ID (still to be confirmed) of one player. It was a cool experience and the people running it were really welcoming and knowledgable. Not the biggest museum in the city, but definitely worth a look if you're in the area. Lots of civil rights history, sports and music.

What an amazing place to spend an afternoon! The photos are displayed in chronological order and they have descriptions by each to explain. The staff was super friendly and helpful. We will visit Withers again when we go back to Memphis. Mr. Withers takes you back in time and lets you experience history through personal and touching photos. Don't miss this gem. Fans from Southern Illinois.

Wonderful collection. It bring history together. Love the picture of the 3 kings. Wished I could stay longer. So much history.

An amazing place to check out to understand the history of civil rights and America as a whole. It is an amazing look at the past through Ernest Withers' eyes. Everyone from Medgar Evers, Tina Turner, Ralph David Abernathy to Jesse Jackson, B.B. King, and Martin Luther King Jr are represented in the plethora of pictures on the wall at the price of FREE to experience. Replicas of all pictures can be purchased at a fee. A must see if you have never been to Memphis in my opinion.

A can't-miss attraction on Beale Street. Mr Withers witness all sides of the civil rights movement. This exhibit spurs discussion and thought.

This museum and gallery is one of the most surprising places I have ever been. Nestled amidst the chaos of Beale Street, the Withers Collection is actually one of the most powerful spaces in the whole city of Memphis. Mr. Withers' photography is not only historically worthy (though the photos he took - including some that he sold to major publications without credit in order to publicize the Civil Rights Movement - are indispensable artifacts of American history), but it is also aesthetically incredible. Even if the photos were portraits of random or unknown individuals, they would be beautiful. Add the fact that they show Medgar Evers, Martin Luther King, Jr., and James Meredith, to name but a few, and you're talking about a peerless collection. Mr. Withers deserves recognition as a civil rights hero in his own right, for bravely documenting so many of the crucial moments of pain and victory of the Movement. Thinking about how scary it is to photograph a police officer in 2015, the significance of these photographs only increases. Normally you have to pay $15-30 admission to a major art institution to see work this good. The fact that the gallery is free and open to the public is incredible and a testament to the vision of its stewards, all of whom seem incredibly passionate and dedicated to the preservation and dissemination of Mr. Withers' work to the widest possible audience. The photos are especially impactful in light of recent events such as the Charleston race massacre and the numerous instances of police brutality against Black men in the past year that have helped publicize the continued need for courageous, selfless heroes like Mr. Withers and his subjects. If you are in Memphis, don't miss the Withers Collection.

Great museum I only came across Bc there was a dj and a guy out front announcing it and the cafe. Only went to the museum part and it was edycational. The pictures made you feel as if you were there when history was made. It was free to get in with a donation and I saw that you can order replicas. Great place to kill time from the drinking and crowds on Beale.

I think this is a very important exhibit. It covers both sides of the same tragic coin. Very rare indeed. It is a "must do", when in the city.

I can't acurately express the joy I had in my heart after visiting this gallery. In April 2016, My family and I were on a trip to Memphis to see the Civil Rights Museum. However, visiting this gallery taught us more than the museum and ended up being the best part of our trip! The day we wanted to go the museum was closed and we ended up walking down Beale Street instead. At the end of this street was this small store front with pictures in the windows. We had no idea what it was but we were lovingly invited inside by the curators. Ms. V, and everyone at the gallery took special care of us. The treated us to a movie, they answered questions we had about the civil rights movement and introduced us to several people including Rosalind Withers and Joe Lipford, both of whom were a tremendous blessing to speak with. From the bottom of my heart the staff and curators of this gallery went above and beyond their duty to educate, encourage and inspire our faith in a mighty way. Thank you all so much!!! If you are in Memphis, this is a MUST VISIT! Anyone who is visiting the Civil Rights Museum, don't leave this place off your agenda. The stories, pictures, and insight contained in the Withers Gallery will bless you and give you a deeper understanding of the civil rights movement.

We had an all around great experience! We received a warm greeting as soon as we entered, and were treated like family our entire visit. Of course, the collection of photos is amazing!!! We will definitely return again!

Went on a business trip to Memphis and wanted to really emerge myself in the Memphis history and culture. The Withers collection is a very powerful place to get started. Great collection, great location Great location!

The Withers Collection is a national treasure that documents in images the ferocity and beauty of the American Civil Rights movement in the fifties and sixties. Earnest Withers was a guardian of memory. He captured everything. He gave it to us that we might remember it all, the culture, the blues, the faces, the desolation of the Lorraine Hotel, the force of the African American experience in the Mid South.

Wonderful pictures of Memphis history! You will have Deep thoughts on the photographs taken...total eye opener and appreciation of your history.

Dr Withers documented civil rights movement. He took many photos of Dr King as well as celebrity icons. There is good video of interview of Dr. Withers. We need to remember the civil rights movement, how far we have come and more important how far we have to go.

Fantastic (small) gallery with some amazing photos. I almost didn't walk this far down Beale, but I'm glad I did. Sometimes photos can tell more than any words and it was a great peek into the history of civil rights. I was the only one inside and it seems to me that no one knows they are there.