Memphis is known for its rich and vibrant cultural heritage, which dates back to pre-Civil War days. But many people don’t realize that the city sits directly on the west bank of the Mississippi River. It was the first city to be declared a port of entry in the United States, and its history of riverboat trading stretches back hundreds of years.
Geographically, Memphis is situated just to the east of the Mississippi River. The city’s boundaries are demarcated by the river on the west and low-lying hills on the east. The largest river in North America, the Mississippi has played an important role in the city’s development and growth over the centuries. It has been an important trade route, providing Memphis with access to the waters of the Gulf of Mexico. It has also served as an important food source, with the river’s nutrient-rich waters providing sustenance to the city’s fishermen and wildlife.
From a historical perspective, the Mississippi has always been the dividing line between North and South. After the Civil War, many freed people sought refuge in Memphis, as the city lay on the Union side of the river. As a result, Memphis attracted a diverse range of settlers from all over the South and, as a result, it has become one of the most culturally diverse cities in the country.
In addition to its geographic location, the Mississippi River has been an important feature in the city’s cultural life. For centuries, musicians and writers have drawn inspiration from the river and many of the city’s most iconic songs and stories have focused on the river and its impact on life in Memphis. The river has also been an important element in the city’s religion, with baptismal ceremonies often taking place in the Mississippi.
Economically, the Mississippi has been key to Memphis’ success. As a port of entry and a major river trade route, the city has benefited significantly from its strategic position for centuries. The river’s resources have provided important commodities for Memphis-based businesses, creating jobs and wealth for the city’s citizens. From cotton to timber, the Mississippi has been an essential source of raw materials for the local economy.
The Mississippi River has had an immense influence on the history, culture and economics of Memphis, and it continues to play a major role in the city’s development today. From the bustling docks of the harbor to the Memphis in May music festival, the people of Memphis are deeply connected to the great river. In short, Memphis lays east of the Mississippi River and has been shaped by it in a variety of ways.
Effects of the Mississippi on Tourism
The Mississippi River has had a positive impact on the city’s tourism industry. Every year, thousands of visitors come to Memphis to experience the river and the city’s attractions. From its harbor to its parks, Memphis has become an increasingly popular destination for visitors from around the world. Tourist-focused businesses, such as restaurants and hotels, have flourished thanks to the influx of visitors from the region, making the city’s economy stronger.
The yearly Memphis in May festival is another way that the river has been utilized to attract tourists. The event brings thousands of people to the city and celebrates Memphis’ connection to the Mississippi. Taking place on the riverfront and lasting for several weeks, the event provides an opportunity for local businesses to benefit from increased tourism, as well as providing a great opportunity for visitors to experience all that Memphis has to offer.
The iconic Memphis Riverboats offer another way that the river contributes to tourism. The riverboats transport visitors up and down the river and provide unique views of the city. The trips have become increasingly popular in recent years, providing local businesses with another outlet to attract tourists to the area. In fact, riverboat trips have become a staple of Memphis’ tourism offerings, with many people returning to the city time and time again to take part in these excursions.
In addition to providing businesses with a way to attract visitors, the Mississippi River also provides tourists with an opportunity to experience the city. Visitors can learn about the river’s history, as well as its role in Memphis’ development. Taking a trip up the river is one of the best ways to appreciate the city’s culture and history, and offers a unique perspective on the city’s development and the lives of its people.
Environmental Impact
The Mississippi River has had a significant environmental impact on the city of Memphis. Pollution from effluents and runoff has increased over the years, leading to degraded water quality in the river. This has had a number of negative effects on the ecosystem, including the destruction of aquatic habitats and the depletion of fish stocks. The contaminated water has also affected local drinking water supplies, with municipal water sources in the city having to be monitored closely.
In an effort to address environmental concerns, the city has implemented a number of measures to reduce pollution in the river. These efforts have included the installation of wastewater treatment plants, the adoption of regulations to control runoff and the establishment of regulations to protect fish habitats. Despite these efforts, the river continues to suffer from persistent environmental pressures. As a result, environmental organizations have continuously urged the city to take further measures to reduce the pollution, including stronger regulation and the adoption of renewable energy sources.
In addition, the Mississippi River has been an important source of food for the city’s residents. Local fishermen rely on the river for sustenance and to make a living. However, over-fishing and pollution have depleted fish stocks, resulting in a decrease in the availability of fish. As a result, many fishermen are now struggling to make a living, and the sustainability of the industry has become a major concern.
In short, the impact of the Mississippi River on the city of Memphis has been significant. From providing the city with an economic boost to adversely affecting the environment, the Mississippi has had a profound effect on the city’s development and continues to shape the city in a myriad of ways.
Conclusion
The city of Memphis lies directly on the west bank of the Mississippi River, so it is not east of the river. Throughout its history, the Mississippi has played an important role in the city, from providing an economic boost to inspiring local creative works and providing an important source of food. However, it has also had a negative effect, as pollution and over-fishing have decreased fish stocks and degraded the water quality. As a result, further measures need to be taken to protect the river and its resources.
