One of the most iconic features of Elvis Presley's Graceland isn't even in the home: it's the gates of Graceland.
Elvis fans from all over the world travel to Memphis to see the mansion, with its famous Jungle Room, totally rock 'n' roll TV and pool rooms, its spacious yard and impressive car collection. But the gates of Graceland are instantly recognizable, with their one-of-a-kind sheet music design.
Fans tour the mansion, of course, but part of the Graceland experience also means snapping a photo of the gates -or in front of the gates - and signing the wall.
Elvis purchased Graceland on March 25, 1957, and he wasted no time turning it into his own castle. In fact, the gates were installed less than a month later, on April 22.
The Graceland Archives have an invoice from Tennessee Fabricating Company for the gate at $1,339.00 in April 1957. There are also invoices and checks for Dillard Door Company for the gate operators, which includes three car controls.
Fans would often line up and hope to catch the world's most famous entertainer leave or enter those gates. Sometimes he'd sign autographs from behind them, and fans could see him and his family horseback riding on the Graceland property.
Today, the gates still serve their original purpose: to protect the rock 'n' roll mansion of Elvis Presley, and they still look as gorgeous as ever. Fans snap selfies in front of the gate, and take a minute to leave a personal message to Elvis on the wall. Fans from across the world have left heartfelt messages over the years.
The gates of Graceland have stood the test of time, and fans love this unique feature of the King's castle.
Have you left a message on the wall, or taken your picture at the gates? If so, tag us on Twitter or Instagram - we're @VisitGraceland on both - or use the hashtag #GracelandGates. You could be featured on Graceland.com!