Sharing All the Preservation Love
Reflecting on Our Impact
Since 1955, the Blue Grass Trust has been making preservation possible in Central Kentucky. As we approach nearly 70 years of storied history, Dr. Zak Leonard, our Historic Preservation Manager, delves into the captivating milestones of our beloved organization. Learn about the pivotal moments that shaped our mission and gain insights into the incredible preservation efforts that have defined our legacy over the past seven decades. This event is open to the public, but registrations are required to attend. Click the button below to submit your registration and secure your spot.
70 Years of Making Preservation Possible:
A History of the Blue Grass Trust
Date: Tuesday, March 5th
Time: 7PM
Location: Dr. Thomas Hunt Morgan House | 210 N Broadway, Lexington, KY 40507
EDUCATION
February Virtual deTour - Available Now!
Click here to watch our virtual February 2024 deTour that highlights the Art Center of the Bluegrass in downtown Danville, Kentucky.
During the February deTour, we delve into the intriguing histories of the two adaptively reused properties that now form the museum while gaining insights into the diverse programs and collections offered by the Art Center for the Blue Grass. This includes the Glass National Art Museum, showcasing its remarkable collection of works by the internationally renowned artist Stephen Rolfe Powell.
Upcoming March deTour (Virtual)
Join us on March 6th for an exclusive virtual tour of Auvergne Farm, a stunning property steeped in history and nestled in the heart of the Bluegrass region's picturesque countryside. Developed in the late eighteenth century and established in the early 1800s for Brutus Clay, the farm and home showcase the impressive architectural work in the Bluegrass countryside.
The Clay family, descendants of Brutus Clay, have owned and maintained the property for generations, preserving its nineteenth-century agricultural charm. Don't miss this unique opportunity to explore one of central Kentucky's most intact and beautifully preserved historical agricultural complexes.
Premiers on Wednesday, March 6th at 6PM
Check back here to watch our virtual March deTour on Auvergne Farm.
Explore Our Educational Initiatives
ADVOCACY
2024 Preservation Awards: Call for Nominations
We are currently accepting nominations for our 2024 Preservation Awards. If you wish to nominate someone, please click here to submit an application and upload supporting documentation.
Advocacy in Action
SUPREME COURT ORAL ARGUMENTS RE. COMMONWEALTH BUILDING
On February 7th, we presented Oral Arguments before the Supreme Court, passionately advocating for the reconsideration of the Commonwealth Building's future. At the heart of our initiative is the push to overturn the bond requirement legislation, a crucial step in preserving this iconic piece of our heritage.
Our dedicated team has tirelessly navigated legal complexities, and this session marks a pivotal moment in our pursuit of justice and preservation. It's important to note that the Supreme Court's decision is anticipated in May at the earliest. As we await this critical judgment, our commitment to the preservation and protection of our historic spaces remains resolute.
DIRECT SERVICES
Deed Room Dig Up
We hosted a hands-on, educational workshop exclusively for the supporters of the Blue Grass Trust on Monday, February 5th at the Fayette County Clerk's Office.
In this workshop, we provided an immersive dive into deed research, led by our Historic Preservation Manager Dr. Zak Leonard and Mr. Shea Brown, Deputy Fayette County Clerk. Our supporters learned:
How to identify the former occupants of their homes
How to determine when a building was constructed
Best practices and special tips (such as using indices and wills)
Thanks to all of our supporters for helping all of us at the Blue Grass Trust to continue our devoted work of historic preservation. If you're interested in becoming a supporter of the Blue Grass Trust, click here to donate today!
New Plaque Property: Richland
Blue Grass Trust plaques are awarded to historic properties (over 50 years of age) that retain their architectural integrity and demonstrate the value of historic preservation.
This month, our Community Preservation and Education Committee awarded plaques to three stellar historic properties. Among these was Richland, an 1824 estate on Old Richmond Road that builder John McMurtry remodeled in the Italianate style in 1860. Constructed for General James Shelby (the son of Governor Isaac Shelby), it was later the residence of the Kinkead and Land families. A fire in 1982 severely damaged the upper stories, but UK student Wesley Francis and his relatives are currently restoring the property room by room. The estate also includes a historic hemp house, smokehouse (with attached privy), and the remnants of the Shelby family burial plot.
Interested in applying for our Blue Grass Trust Plaque? We encourage you to complete a plaque application and submit it to the Blue Grass Trust! More information can be found here.
