Graceland now a historic landmark The Memphis mansion where Elvis Presley died in 1977 is now a National Historic Landmark. Graceland now joins the ranks of Mount Vernon, Monticello and the White House as registered historic treasures.
Gale Norton, soon-to-be ex-secretary of the Interior, was on hand Monday to announce the distinction. "It would be difficult to tell the story of the 20th century without discussing the many contributions made by this legendary, iconic artist," she said.
Elvis's former wife and Naked Gun star, Priscilla Presley, added: "To him, having Graceland also was a tangible symbol of how far he had come from his very humble beginnings."
Elvis bought the home in 1957 for $103,000 after the release of his first hit record, "Heartbreak Hotel."