Parks and Rec holds Black History Guided Walk

Lexington, Ky. (WTVQ) — Outdoor programs staff with Lexington Parks and Recreation held it’s first Lexington Black History Guided Walk on Saturday.

The walk was originally scheduled for earlier this year, but was rescheduled due to weather.

The goal is to highlight African Amirian heritage and black history and visit some of the parks that are preserving Lexington’s black history.

“Lexington has a rich history and this park, as well as the Isaac Murphy Park, are ones that are just helping to promote, share and make sure that the black history and African American history is preserved through parks,” said Jennifer Meunir with Parks and Recreation. “So, we just wanted to start here with those stories.

Those who joined the walk were able to learn about the East End neighborhood, Charles Young and Isaac Murphy.

The event began at one p.m. in the Charles Young Park, with a short walk to the Isaac Murphy Memorial Art Garden.

“But I think that it was such a wonderful journey, just walking kind of exploring more of Lexington and then becoming more familiar with the area as well as black history,” said Zach Shaw, an attendee. “It was so cool to see, especially to bring it back home to the Kentucky Derby aspect. I never would have guessed that a black jockey was so successful in his career, because we don’t learn about that in school. So, I think that’s a great opportunity for us to come out here as adults, or as well as bringing the family out, and become more informed with our local area.”

The walk ended back at the Charles Young Park at 2 p.m.

Attendees had the opportunity to give feedback on the experience.

The next Black History Guided Walk will be on June 16th.