Welcome to the historical site of Hooks Brothers Photography, a significant landmark in the rich cultural tapestry of Beale Street, Memphis. Established in 1907 by Henry Hooks, Sr., and his brother Robert B. Hooks, this photography studio played a vital role in documenting the African American experience in Memphis throughout much of the 20th century.
Originally located at 164 Beale Street, the Hooks Brothers Photography Studio quickly became a cornerstone of the community. It wasn’t just a business; it was a place where history was captured and preserved through the lens of a camera. The studio chronicled everything from the daily lives of ordinary citizens to the grand occasions of notable figures. Among the luminaries captured by the Hooks Brothers were Booker T. Washington and W.C. Handy, both pivotal figures in American history.
One of the most intriguing aspects of this location is its connection to the legendary blues musician Robert Johnson. The Hooks Brothers Photography Studio is where one of the only two confirmed photographs of Johnson was taken, a portrait that today graces the cover of his ‘Complete Recordings’ album. This connection to Johnson adds a layer of musical heritage to the studio’s already rich history.
Over the years, the studio moved locations, from Beale Street to Linden Avenue, and finally to McLemore Avenue before a devastating fire in 1979 forced its closure. Despite this, the legacy of the Hooks Brothers Photography Studio endures, reminding us of the vibrant community it served and the stories it preserved.
Today, the space that once housed the studio is part of the King’s Palace Cafe, but echoes of its past remain. Visitors to this site can imagine the bustling activity of the studio in its heyday, where people came to have their portraits taken or to witness the chronicling of Memphis’s African American history. The original architectural features, such as the wooden wainscoting and transoms, still exist, offering a glimpse into the building’s storied past.
