Overton Park, Memphis
Location: Poplar Ave. & Veterans Plaza Drive, Memphis, Tennessee (MAP)
Contact Info: Park Friends Inc. http://www.parkfriends.net/
Date Visited: 12-18-2008
I stopped to visit the arboretum one cool December morning while passing through Memphis, TN. I was excited to visit this particular park because of the ex-National Champion Shumard Oak that is recorded as living within the grounds. To say that I was not happy with my visit to Overton Park is understatement of gargantuan proportions. The words furious, disgusted and terrified come to mind.
As I pulled into the parking lot a man in a truck was leaving opposite me. He stared at me in an especially creepy way. I ignored the stranger and exited my car and approached the sign to review the park information. As I read the sign the truck re-entered the parking lot and backed into a parking spot. The man sat in his truck staring at me. I considered leaving, but decided to venture forward down the path through the arboretum.
I hesitated for a moment at the entrance. It was anything but inviting and I once again questioned returning to my car. I decided to once again go onward. I passed through the graffiti gates and down the street beyond. Along the edge of the street a small foot worn trail split off into the woods. It did not appear to be a formal trail, but no other entrances seemed obvious.
As I progressed down the trail I came upon the first tree. "OFT Ironwood" the sign read. I took OFT to mean Old Forest Trail. No scientific nomenclature defined the tree any further. As I pulled my camera out and began taking photos the man from the parking lot walked into view. He approached me directly, eyes locked on. I asked him, "can I help you?"...perhaps he lost his dog, maybe he wants to ask a question about the trees? He gave me a little smile and considered the question. When he spoke it was quietly, almost a whisper "No...you cant help me" and he said and slowly walked past. At this point it suddenly became clear what he was looking for and I decide to promptly exit the park. I returned to my car and as I exited the parking lot I could see him walking back to his truck to await the next visitor.
It wasn't until later that I read that the park is a known location for male prostitution. Failing to ignore my earlier intuitions resulted in an uncomfortable situation that could have turned out worse. I suggest always using safe practices when visiting unknown places alone. Always let someone know where you are going, and when possible bring a cell phone or friend.
Further exploration of Overton Park will have to wait until another day. From what I observed the park is poorly maintained, the tree identification markers are inadequate, and the crime may be high.
Observed Trees:
Ironwood
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