I was at the Center for Southern Folklore last night to meet the kids from the Haringey Young Musicians group from London. They're in Memphis to learn about music history and preform at schools and the Orpheum.

While I was wandering around taking photos, I came across this small Be Nice or Leave sign for the  Memphis scavenger hunt.

Memphis is a big fan of the "Be Nice or Leave" sentiment. There are signs like this hanging in restaurants, shops and offices all over the city, warning people that they need to get polite or get out. Most of the signs are handmade and hand painted and of a very specific Southern folk art style.

This particular sign was made by Dr. Bob, an artist from New Orleans. (Thanks to blog reader Will for pointing that out!)

If you want to get your own Be Nice or Leave sign, stop by the Center for Southern Folklore's shop on Main St. They've got all kinds of unique Southern handmade goodies like quits, birdhouses, pottery, sculptures and paintings. If you walk by when the store isn't open, drop a quarter into the light up, music-playing shrine in the window.

Go There:

Center for Southern Folklore

119 South Main Street
Memphis, TN 38103