Karli Mullane
Riley Keough, the granddaughter of Elvis Presley, has a deep connection to Graceland that goes beyond its fame as a tourist hotspot. Following the death of her mother, Lisa Marie Presley, earlier this year, Riley has stepped into the role of sole owner of the legendary estate. For her, Graceland is not just a historic site but a cherished family home filled with memories.
Growing Up at Graceland
Riley Keough spent her childhood visiting Graceland, often staying with her mother during quiet weekends. Speaking with Seth Meyers on Late Night with Seth Meyers, she reminisced about the routine when they visited while tourists roamed the grounds.
– “The tours start in the morning and they end at 4 pm,” Riley explained.
– “If we were to stay in the house — Elvis’ room and my mother’s room are not part of the tour — we would stay upstairs and have to wait until the tours were over.”
While her visits became less frequent over the years, Riley has recently found herself at Graceland more often, driven by personal and family milestones.
Preserving a Legacy
In an interview with People, Riley discussed her responsibility as the new owner of Graceland and how she plans to honor her family’s legacy. She stated, “My hope is to continue what my grandmother did, and then my mother did, which is simply to preserve our family home.” This commitment reflects not only a desire to keep the estate intact but also to honor its historical significance.
Graceland was initially purchased by Elvis Presley in 1957 for $100,000. At the time of his death in 1977, it was valued at around $5 million. Currently, its worth is estimated at an impressive $500 million, largely thanks to Priscilla Presley’s decision to open it to the public in 1982. Today, Graceland generates over $10 million annually.
A New Generation at Graceland
In 2023, Riley welcomed her daughter, Tupelo Storm, named after both her great-grandfather’s birthplace and her late uncle’s middle name. With a focus on family, Riley has already introduced her daughter to the iconic estate, helping to instill a sense of history and legacy.
“Bringing Tupelo to Graceland feels special,” Riley expressed during a recent interview. “It’s important for me to share our family’s history with her.”
Family Ties and Ongoing Traditions
Riley and her mother often spent time at Graceland, creating lasting memories within its walls. Even amidst the hustle of tourists, there was a sense of privacy and warmth for the Presley family.
– “We’d stay upstairs and wait,” Riley recalled fondly.
– “It was a time to connect and be together, surrounded by family history.”
As she continues her journey in the public eye, particularly with the release of her mother’s posthumous memoir, “From Here to the Great Unknown,” Riley emphasizes the importance of staying true to her roots.
What Lies Ahead for Graceland
As the estate transitions into new hands, visitors and fans of the Presley family can expect a dedication to preserving its rich history. Riley acknowledges the weight of her role but remains optimistic about the future.
– “I want to keep it alive for future generations to visit and learn about our family’s impact on music and culture,” she noted.
With her strong sense of duty to her family’s legacy, Riley is poised to ensure that Graceland continues to be a place where stories are shared and memories are cherished.
The Road Ahead
Riley’s determination to maintain Graceland as a family home underscores her commitment to the legacy of Elvis and Lisa Marie. With each visit, she hopes to bridge the connection between the past and the future, ensuring that the magic of Graceland endures.
Graceland remains a symbol of the Presley family’s enduring influence in music and culture. Through dedication and love, Riley Keough is set to honor that legacy, welcoming both family and fans to experience the warmth of their shared history within its iconic walls
