Robinson Jr. (23), Ben Woodson (25), Charles H. (24), and Frank Doggrell III (25) led the efforts to pass a referendum to allow establishments to sell liquor by the drink. The approved license was driven from Nashville right to the doors of T.G.I. Friday's first franchised location outside of New York City in Overton Square. It quickly became a success and an anchor for other shops, restaurants, p
ubs, and other attractions to safely establish themselves. In the 1970’s, Overton Square was home to 11 restaurants and 27 shops, employing over 800 Memphis locals. Over time, the Square was home to an ice skating rink, Solomon Alfred's, the Mississippi River Co., Public Eye, Bombay Bicycle Club, Gonzales & Gertrude's, the Hot Air Balloon, Lafayette's Music Room, Yosemite Sam's, Godfather's Supper Club, Trader Dick's, and the original Huey's as well as many more. Pub crawls attracted over 40,000 people and Christmas at Overton Square was known for its carolers, roasted chestnuts and for bringing snow to the Mid-South every year. Today Overton Square is a thriving arts and entertainment district anchored by four live-performance theaters, the Ballet Memphis headquarters and performance space, The Memphian boutique hotel, music venues, and a multi-screen movie theater with year-round free events held in Chimes Square and throughout the district.
