About Colonial Acres
How it Started, 1953
Colonial Acres began as a planned development in what is now considered the center of Memphis. The land was deeded by the owner of the original estate home, which is still standing in CA. The original deed was framed and in the home until 2022.
Anne Whalen Shafer was responsible for the creation of Colonial Acres Neighborhood Association (CANA) in 1981. She was involved in many governmental and civic projects as well, including City Beautiful and the UN Association.
Our Homes and Oak Trees
Homes in the area were primarily built in the early 1950's. Construction is mostly of brick, traditional style with modernist touches. Most all have hidden treasures such as real hardwood flooring, phone nooks in the hallway and colorful ceramic tile baths.
The subdivision developers insisted on a minimum of 2 oak trees per lot, even hired a landscaper with a mule-pulled cart to transplant trees from one lot to another. (That's what inspired our CANA logo!)
Actually, traveling southbound on Sea Isle from Quince or on Leatherwood at Sea Isle, you may notice the sidewalks were built around magnificent oak trees, these trees must be in the 75-125 year age range.
Witnessing History
Historical site info coming soon!
Our Neighborhood Association
CANA, organized in 1980, and its predecessor, the Colonial Acres Civic Club, enjoy a reputation to be proud of:
A dedicated board of volunteers works with each other and committee members to continue Colonial Acres' place as a gem of Memphis.
With regular meetings and intentionally low dues, CANA seeks to serve the neighbors and overall community.
Made up of more than 1,300 homes, Colonial Acres is the largest neighborhood in Memphis. While it can be tough to meet everyone, it allows us a strong voice in our city.
CANA Today
Today, CANA is a diverse neighborhood with wonderful amenities, great neighbors, and stable housing pricing.
Bordered on the North by Park Avenue and going South to I-240 expressway;
Bordered by Mt. Moriah on the East and Cherry Road on the West.