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X marks the spot.
X marks the spot.

Where Elvis Got His First Guitar

Field review by the editors.

Tupelo, Mississippi

Tupelo Hardware looks much the same as it did in 1946, when 11-year-old Elvis Presley came in with his mom. Gladys Presley wanted to buy her son a birthday-present bicycle. Elvis wanted her to buy him a rifle. The well-stocked store sold both, but since neither party was happy with the other's idea of a gift, a compromise was reached.

Mom bought Elvis a guitar.

The store still has the same wood floors and oak-stained, glass-fronted counters, which now are just as likely to be stocked with Elvis sweatshirts and collectibles as drain cleaner and wrench sets. The store no longer sells bicycles (or guns), but in honor of its most famous customer it still sells guitars.

Tupelo Hardware.

The Elvis guitar never returned, but the store displays a photo of it on the wall where the original once hung. The spot where Elvis stood is marked with an X of duct tape, and high above the service desk hangs a portrait of The King made from buttons.

Also see: Birthplace of Elvis Presley

Where Elvis Got His First Guitar

Tupelo Hardware

Address:
114 W. Main St., Tupelo, MS
Directions:
Tupelo Hardware. East side of downtown. US Hwy 45 to the E. Main St. exit, then west several blocks. North side, between Front and Spring Sts. Just west of the railroad tracks.
Hours:
M-F 7-5:30, Sa 7-noon (Call to verify) Local health policies may affect hours and access.
Phone:
662-842-4637
Save to My Sights

Nearby Offbeat Places

Elvis MuralsElvis Murals, Tupelo, MS - < 1 mi.
Touch the Hand of ElvisTouch the Hand of Elvis, Tupelo, MS - < 1 mi.
Neon: First TVA City SignNeon: First TVA City Sign, Tupelo, MS - < 1 mi.
In the region:
Howlin' Wolf Memorial, West Point, MS - 45 mi.

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