Memphis Honors the Man Who Saved 32 People From the Mississippi River

MEMPHIS, Tennessee — October 5, 2026 — More than a century after a Memphis river worker risked his life to save 32 people from a sinking steamboat, his story is still bringing the community together.

A Rescue That Became Part of Memphis History

On May 8, 1925, Tom Lee was traveling along the Mississippi River when he saw the steamboat M.E. Norman capsize near Memphis.

Lee was operating a small motorboat called the Zev. Although he could not swim, he turned his boat toward the wreck and began pulling people from the river.

He made repeated trips through the dangerous current, eventually rescuing 32 people. He also helped survivors stay warm by building a fire on a sandbar before returning to search the river again.

A Lantern Guided Him Through the Darkness

As darkness fell, Lee continued searching for survivors. A lantern attached to the front of his boat helped guide him through the night.

His courage quickly made him a local hero. The University of Memphis archives record that Lee was later honored for the rescue, and the city eventually named Tom Lee Park after him.

A Century Later, His Story Lights Up the City

On October 3, Memphis held its second annual Tom Lee’s Mississippi River Gumption Revival Lantern Parade at Tom Lee Park.

The community celebration featured handmade lanterns, music and giant illuminated puppets. Participants marched along the riverfront carrying lanterns inspired by the small light that helped guide Lee during his historic rescue.

Families Help Keep His Memory Alive

The event was not only a tribute to a historical figure. It also gave local families an opportunity to learn about Lee’s courage and take part in preserving his story.

People could create their own lanterns during community workshops before joining the parade. The celebration was designed to connect Memphis residents with the riverfront and with a story that has remained part of the city’s identity for more than 100 years.

A Story About Courage

Tom Lee did not have formal rescue equipment or professional training when he turned his boat toward the sinking steamboat. He simply saw people in danger and decided to help.

More than 100 years later, Memphis continues to remember that decision with a simple symbol: a lantern shining in the darkness.

Sources

Memphis River Parks Partnership — official information about Tom Lee Day and the 2026 Gumption Revival Lantern Parade.

University of Memphis Libraries — historical records documenting Tom Lee’s 1925 rescue of 32 people.

Action News 5 — coverage of the second annual lantern parade held in Memphis on October 3, 2026.