A Monument of the Mind

My response to news about the Nineteenth Century Club:
(Memphis) To me, the Nineteenth Century Club is a monument not to a period of time, but to good citizenship. It is the birthplace of ideas that helped this city grow in strength and beauty, a monument of the mind. Its name is the name of a Club whose members have helped everyone living in Memphis even to this day. Who has not played in the parks of Memphis? This club created the Parks and Recreation system by organizing the first public playground. If each Memphian who ever enjoyed summers in the parks contributed ten dollars, the Nineteenth Century could have its repairs done in no time. This same group of forward thinking club members started City Beautiful campaign in 1930 which lasted through the fifties and sixties and produced results winning national acclaim and tourists for Memphis. This club also helped build hospitals and education associations. This building on Union could become a highlight on tours of the secret treasures in Memphis, like the lovely homes in the Historical District of New Orleans.  In some cities, the government would purchase the land and rent the building back back to the organization or owner in perpetuity (or at least 99 years) for $1.00 a year.  By eliminating the tax burden, the organization might be able to make the needed repairs.