The Memphis Pyramid: From Speedy Build to Bass Pro Paradise - How Long Did This Pyramid Scheme Take?
The Memphis Pyramid. A gleaming (well, used to be gleaming) monument to... what exactly? It's a question that's plagued tourists and locals alike for decades. But one thing's for sure: this modern marvel wasn't built overnight (or should we say, over-decade?). So, buckle up, grab your sunglasses (it gets reflective in that Tennessee sun), and let's dive into the curious case of the Memphis Pyramid's construction timeline.
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| How Long Did It Take To Build The Memphis Pyramid |
From Dream to Steel Beam: A Not-So-Speedy Start
The story begins not with pharaohs and curses, but with an artist named Mark Hartz in the 1950s. Now, Mark wasn't exactly Indiana Jones, but he did have a wild idea: build a whole fleet of pyramids on the Memphis bluffs! Think Vegas on the Nile, but with more catfish and less gambling. Thankfully, that particular plan remained a fantasy. Fast forward a few decades, and Mark's son, Jon, pulls out the dusty blueprints. This time, it's a single, sleek pyramid made of glass and bronze. Catchy, right? Enter John Tigrett, a Memphis entrepreneur with a knack for flashy ventures. He sees the pyramid as a beacon that'll put Memphis on the map (and maybe even attract some alien tourists). Funding secured, construction finally began in September 1989.
Hold on a pyramid-shaped minute! Building a pyramid in modern America turns out to be a tad more complex than stacking mudbricks. There were setbacks, cost overruns, and enough head-scratching moments to make even the Sphinx raise an eyebrow.
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From Groundbreaking to Grand Opening: The Home Stretch (or Should We Say Home Triangle?)
Despite the hiccups, the Memphis Pyramid eventually rose from the ground. After a whirlwind two years, the pyramid was ready for its grand unveiling on November 9, 1991. That's right, folks, it took a little over two years to build this modern marvel. Not exactly the same kind of construction speed as the mysterious pyramids of Giza, but hey, at least they had indoor plumbing from the get-go.
Fun Fact: Legend has it that during construction, a mysterious crystal skull was stashed away inside the pyramid as a good luck charm. We're not sure if it brought good luck, but it sure makes for a cool story!
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So, What Happened Next? The Pyramid's Post-Construction Journey
The Memphis Pyramid's story doesn't end with its completion. It's been a venue for concerts, sporting events, and even a church (talk about a change of pace!). However, in recent years, it found a new calling: becoming a giant Bass Pro Shops megastore complete with an aquarium, bowling alley, and even an observation deck at the peak.
Whether you see it as a tourist attraction, a fisherman's paradise, or a monument to human ambition (and questionable taste in building materials), there's no denying the Memphis Pyramid's unique place in Memphis history.
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How To FAQs: Your Guide to Pyramid-Building (Not Really)
Inspired by the Memphis Pyramid's story? Here are some helpful FAQs to get you started on your own pyramid-building adventure (emphasis on the adventure):
How to Build a Pyramid: This one's a tough one. While the internet might have some DIY tutorials, we recommend leaving large-scale pyramid construction to the professionals. Safety first, folks!
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How to Visit the Memphis Pyramid: Easy! The Bass Pro Shops Pyramid is open to the public. Just remember to pack your walking shoes (it's a big place) and your fishing gear (just in case).
How to Become a Bass Pro Shops Expert: This might be more achievable. There's probably a YouTube tutorial out there for everything these days.
How Long Did it Take to Build the Great Pyramids of Giza? Estimates vary, but archaeologists believe it took anywhere from 20-50 years to build each pyramid. Now that's some serious dedication (and a whole lot of sunscreen).
How Much Does it Cost to Build a Pyramid? In the case of the Memphis Pyramid, around $65 million (which is roughly $130 million in today's dollars). Let's just say, building a pyramid isn't exactly budget-friendly.
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