top of page
Writer's pictureBrandon Cunning

Unveiling the Enigmatic Pride of Beale Street: A Journey through Time and Goat-Spiced Antics

Updated: May 15


Gallina Exchange Building
Gallina Exchange Building

Introduction


Step into the vibrant tapestry of Beale Street and prepare to be captivated by its eclectic charm. Amidst the lively atmosphere, an extraordinary sight arrests your attention—a building seemingly suspended in mid-air by six sturdy steel girders. Curiosity beckons you closer, only to discover that this structure lacks walls and a roof. However, it's the enigmatic sign that steals your focus, boldly declaring, "Beware Irish Diving Goats." Intrigued and perplexed, you find yourself pondering the secrets hidden within this peculiar place.


Chapter 1: A Glimpse into Beale Street's Bygone Era


Transporting you back over 130 years to 1891, we delve into a Beale Street that pulsated with an entirely different energy. In an era predating the reign of W.C. Handy and the birth of blues, Beale Street still boasted opulent mansions at one end. It was a time when Memphis had much to celebrate, especially the reinstatement of its city status. Rewinding to 1878, we encounter the somber backdrop of a devastating yellow fever epidemic that robbed Memphis of two-thirds of its population, leading to the loss of its city charter. Reduced to a mere State of Tennessee taxing district, the city fought to reclaim its former glory.



Montgomery Race Track
Montgomery Race Track

Chapter 2: The Mysterious Judge and His Gambling Obsession


Enter Charles Gallina, a thirty-one-year-old judge and magistrate for Shelby County. A rather elusive figure from the annals of history, Judge Gallina remains shrouded in mystery, save for his resounding passion for horse racing. Evidently infatuated with the equestrian world, the judge's stables housed an impressive seventeen racehorses at their peak. He was a familiar face at Montgomery Race Track and North Memphis Driving Track, the bustling epicenters of horse race betting in town.



Judge Charles Gallina Sporting An Awesome Mustache
Judge Charles Gallina Sporting An Awesome Mustache

Chapter 3: The Birth of The Gallina Exchange Building


Flush with horse racing fortunes, Judge Gallina commissioned the esteemed local architect, B.C. Alsup, to erect a structure unparalleled on Beale Street—the Gallina Exchange Building. This was to be no ordinary edifice; it would embody sophistication, luxury, and an indomitable spirit. As construction reached completion, a three-story, round-the-clock saloon emerged, exuding grandeur and housing a lavish gambling hall adorned with walnut paneling. This audacious judge's ventures knew no bounds as he even relocated his entire family to the building's third floor—a decision that would undoubtedly raise eyebrows in modern times.


Chapter 4: Revelries and Royalty: The Gallina Exchange's Heyday


The Gallina Exchange Building quickly became the epitome of Beale Street's pride, boasting not only a premier saloon but also a hotel with 20 opulent rooms, each featuring a magnificent marble fireplace. The Grand Opera House crowd gravitated toward this establishment, attracting renowned traveling actors who found solace within its walls. With the second floor serving as the judge's courtroom, litigants could anticipate the respite of libations downstairs, regardless of their legal fortunes.



Gallina Exchange Building With Walls And A Roof
Gallina Exchange Building With Walls And A Roof

Chapter 5: A Legacy Transformed: From Fire to Ferocious Fun


Alas, time waits for no man, not even the audacious Judge Gallina. In 1914, he departed from his grand palace, leaving behind a legacy that would experience manifold transformations over the years. The building witnessed various reincarnations as a pharmacy, clothing store, and even a dentist's office. However, adversity struck in 1980 when a devastating fire engulfed the structure, ravaging its interior and necessitating the placement of six stalwart steel girders to uphold its skeletal remains. Nature's fury further took its toll when a mighty windstorm caused the collapse of the rear and side walls, leaving behind the unconventional sight that perplexes passersby today.



A photo of Silky O'Sullivan.
Silky O'Sullivan

Chapter 6: Silky O'Sullivan's: A Haven of Revelry and Resilience


Fast forward to the vibrant 1990s, and the spirited Silky O'Sullivan's made its indelible mark by choosing this unconventional locale as its new home. Transforming the open space into a thriving patio, Silky's injected an irresistible dose of merriment into the heart of Beale Street. Savor the camaraderie, laughter, and the legendary gallon of booze, a testament to the joie de vivre that permeates this unique establishment.


Chapter 7: The Goat-Spiced Enchantment of Irish Diving Goats


Amongst the spirited revelry on Silky O'Sullivan's patio, a surprising and unforgettable presence steals the spotlight—the Irish Diving Goats. Mischievously named Angelina and Xena, these South African Boer goats have claimed the patio as their own, eagerly observing the captivating antics of Beale Street's denizens. These charismatic creatures once partook in beer-drinking revelries until their indulgence was curbed by the watchful eyes of PETA after a memorable stint on The Tonight Show.



Irish Diving Goats
Irish Diving Goats

Conclusion A century has passed since Judge Gallina departed from his beloved establishment, yet the spirit of this remarkable building endures. Stripped of its marble fireplaces, gambling halls, and inhabitants, it finds itself reimagined as a sanctuary of joy, resplendent with the frolicsome presence of Irish Diving Goats. It's a place where the audacity of the past mingles with the vibrant spirit of the present, ensuring that Judge Gallina's legacy lives on amidst the exuberance and madness that defines Beale Street.


Intrigued by Memphis history? If you're eager to uncover more hidden gems and untold stories, why not take it a step further? Book a tour with us at Rock 'n' Roll Tours and embark on an unforgettable journey through the city's rich past. From legendary landmarks to off-the-beaten-path adventures, we're your local guides to Memphis history. Click to explore our tours and let's dive deeper into the heart of Memphis together."







22 views0 comments

Comments

Rated 0 out of 5 stars.
No ratings yet

Add a rating
bottom of page