Elvis Presley crypt pulled from auction block

GlobalPost

The crypt in which Elvis Presley was first buried after his death in 1977 has been pulled from an auction in Los Angeles after outraged fans around the globe argued it should be kept as a shrine to his memory.

Julien’s Auctions announced in May that it would sell off the private tomb at Forest Hill Cemetery in Memphis, Tennessee, in which Presley’s body was interred alongside his mother for two months before the pair were reburied at the rock & roll legend’s Graceland home, according to the Associated Press.

The crypt has been empty since then, and was due to go under the hammer Sunday with bids opening at $100,000, according to the BBC.  The proposed sale included the right to open and close the vault and crypt for burial; a memorial inscription; and the use of the the cemetery's chapel for a service, according to The New York Times.

But on Friday Julien’s Auctions said it would not auction off the tomb until the cemetery “finds a plan that best suits the interests of the fans while respecting and preserving the memory of Elvis.” 

Will you support The World with a monthly donation?

There is no paywall on the story you just read because a community of dedicated listeners and readers have contributed to keep the global news you rely on free and accessible for all. Will you join the 319 donors who have supported The World so far? From now until Dec. 31, your gift will help us unlock a $67,000 match. Donate today to double your impact!