Watch: MLK remembrance event in Memphis

New National Civil Rights Museum exhibit

National Civil Rights Museum

The National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis opened a new exhibit today entitled “MLK50: A Legacy Remembered.” The exhibit reflects on the 50 years since the death of Dr. Martin Luther King, featuring a collection of documents, rare photographs, FBI files and other items.

According the the museum, the exhibit “uniquely examines King’s relationship” to the city Memphis, including his many visits, the role of the Lorraine Motel and its owners. MLK50 recreates a timeline of Dr. King’s movements in Memphis for the 48 hours leading up to his death on April 4, 1968.

“Our goal is to provide a historical context for King’s work during 1967 and 1968, as well as the events that took place in Memphis on April 3-4,” said Noelle Trent, the museum’s Director of Interpretation, Collections & Education.

The National Civil Rights Museum opened in 1991 and is located at the former Lorraine Motel, where Dr. King was assassinated. The museum’s mission is to chronicle the American civil rights movement and encourage thoughtful debate for global civil and human rights issues today.