In the summer of 2025, South City Museum and Cultural Center posted online its project brochure, offering an introduction to the museum and the stories it seeks to share. Featuring preliminary renderings by Self+Tucker Architects, the brochure provides a clear overview of the project and its vision, helping the community and supporters understand the museum’s goals and the rich history it aims to preserve. (link to e-brochure)

In August 2024, the South City Museum and Cultural Center launched its Oral History Program in partnership with Rhodes College, spearheaded by Dr. Charles McKinney and Dr. Charity Clay, who are collecting and documenting these stories. The first interview featured local historian and community storyteller Leonard Draper, known for his knowledge of South Memphis culture, sports, and history. The program aims to document 35–40 personal stories, over two years, preserving the voices and experiences of the community for generations to come.

The Museum’s Interpretive Planning Committee, composed of acclaimed authors, historians, and museum professionals, was established to develop the museum’s overarching story and exhibit flow. Dr. Earnestine Jenkins was selected as lead historian and first guest curator, guiding the team’s efforts. Meeting with local scholars, educators, and community leaders, the committee is advancing additional research to ensure the museum accurately highlights and preserves the rich history of South Memphis.

The Museum Advisory Committee was established with 24 former and current South Memphis residents, each bringing lived experience and deep community knowledge. Their primary roles include sharing oral histories, identifying additional oral history storytellers, and serving as ambassadors for the museum’s mission. As planning advances, the committee’s responsibilities will expand, especially in 2027, when their insight will help shape the museum’s collection of artifacts and future exhibits.

In the fall of 2023, Marc Willis joined the South City Museum and Cultural Center as Project Manager. Since then, he has guided the museum’s daily progress, strengthened community collaborations, and advanced the Board’s strategic plan. With expertise in start-up projects and connecting the museum’s vision to local partners and institutions, Willis has played a key role in shaping the project’s continued growth

Despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Board of Directors remained committed to advancing the museum’s mission. New members joined, and board contributions helped sustain early momentum. During this period, the scope of work ahead became clearer, and the team recognized that building a museum that properly honors South Memphis would be a long, dedicated journey—one they were fully prepared to undertake.