Nestled in the second story of a two story building on South Second Street, the Talbot Heirs' eight guest suites are easy to overlook, if you don't know about them. From the street, there's nothing to denote the presence of the little hotel -- unless you look closely and glimpse the hand-painted window. Upstairs, is something else.
Visitors who come here call in advance and let Tom and Sandy Franck know that they're coming. They're met at the curbside and helped into one of Memphis' best kept secrets.
Up a staircase and to the right, you'll find these overnight apartments inviting, fresh -- and large.


Parking is close by too -- though if you're visiting the downtown attractions, you won't need a car. Beale Street's downtown thunder is just two blocks away, Autozone Park a mere block and a half -- and the Main Street Trolley is on the back side of the block. There are several restaurants right by the Talbot Heirs, including the Flying Fish and the Big Foot Lodge.
Throughout the Guesthouse, you'll find artwork by local artists, and by New Orleans native Dr. Bob. He came to Memphis in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina and left his indeliable footprint -- or thumbprint -- here. His simple "Be Nice Or Leave" signs are in evidence here, and all throughout the downtown area. There are also several of his other pieces here, eclectic echoes that share the wide hallway with paper lanterns and guests.
Unlike the cookie-cutter formula you'll get at other hotels, the Francks have brought service to a very personal level at the Talbot Heirs. They'll make special arrangements for you -- whether it's accommodating for your allergies, having just the right movie in your room for you, or stocking your kitchen with groceries before you arrive.
The rates are comparable to what you'd pay at most of the local hotels --$130 to $275 a night. But for a quiet, safe getaway and lots of room, you can't beat it.
The Talbot Heirs Guesthouse is located at 99 South Second Street in Memphis, just across from the Peabody and Texas de Brazil. Call (800) 955-3956 or check out the Talbot Heirs website.
UPDATE 9/7/17. I'm glad to say the Talbot Heirs is still running and still available. I've replaced the images with photo credited images and did a little color touch-up. Do realize if you visit that these photos were from January 2008, and furnishings and such may have changed.
I ended up getting my own Dr. Bob "Be Nice Or Leave." It's in my dining room.
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Be kind.