Lexington to unveil ‘Towards Freedom’ monument honoring Underground Railroad heroes

LEXINGTON, Ky. (ABC36 NEWS NOW) — A new public monument honoring Lexington’s role in the Underground Railroad is set to be unveiled Thursday, June 19, on Juneteenth.

“Towards Freedom,” a sculpture by internationally acclaimed artist Basil Watson, commemorates the lives and legacy of Lewis and Harriet Hayden—two formerly enslaved Lexingtonians who became key figures in the abolitionist movement.

The Lexington Freedom Train, in partnership with LexArts, is behind the project. The sculpture aims to honor not only the Haydens, but also the courage of all those who sought freedom through Kentucky’s Underground Railroad.

“Congratulations to the committed volunteers who worked hard to bring this sculpture to downtown Lexington,” Mayor Linda Gorton said in a statement. “As we celebrate our community’s 250th anniversary, it’s important to tell the remarkable hometown story of the Haydens, who changed the lives of countless people living in slavery.”

The Lexington Public Arts Commission contributed $245,000 to the project—its largest contribution to date. City officials say “Towards Freedom” is a step toward acknowledging Lexington’s history, honoring resistance to slavery, and preserving the stories of those who fought for freedom.

The unveiling ceremony will take place at 11 a.m. on the grounds of Lexington Traditional Magnet School, 350 N. Limestone Street. Dignitaries expected to attend include Mayor Linda Gorton, Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear, and members of the Lexington-Fayette Urban County Council.

More information is available on the official event page.