April 2022 | Kentucky Monthly Magazine by Kentucky Monthly Magazine

K E N T U C K Y D E R B Y F E S T I VA L

OFFICIAL SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

APRIL 2022

THE ART SANCTUARY OF

ELLEN SKIDMORE

AND MORE ... WAGNER’S PHARMACY THE HORSE PEOPLE’S HANGOUT KY HUMANITIES CELEBRATES 50 YEARS PRESIDENT ULYSSES S. GRANT + HIS KENTUCKY TIES CRYSTAL WILKINSON HONORED WITH NATIONAL AWARD Display until 05/10/2022

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Kentucky Home “Rubicon set out more than a decade ago to use software and technology to reimagine the waste and recycling industry and, at long last, bring real solutions to global environmental challenges. It is a mission that we approach with the same grit and determination that marks our home state of Kentucky. We are proud to be referred to as ‘America’s Technology Company,’ and proud that Kentucky will play a key role in our mission for decades to come.” Nate Morris Chairman and CEO of Rubicon

Rubicon is a programming sponsor at the

Rubicon’s Lexington

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O N T H E C OV E R Ellen Skidmore’s painting “Harmony”; below, Skidmore’s “Captain”

in this issue

APRIL D E PA R T M E N T S 2 Kentucky Kwiz 3 Readers Write 4 Mag on the Move 8 Cooking 47 Kentucky Explorer 58 Past Tense/ Present Tense 60 Gardening 62 Field Notes 63 Calendar 64 Vested Interest

12 Finding Her Voice Midway artist Ellen Skidmore channels human experience in an unrestrained and emotionally eloquent way 17 A Louisville Classic Wagner’s Pharmacy has been taking care of people and horses for 100 years 23 Kentucky Derby Festival Schedule of Events The weeks-long celebration returns with a bang this year and includes more than 70 exciting events

38 Grant at 200 As Ohio River Valley communities observe the anniversary of the Union Army general’s birth, Grant’s Maysville ties are remembered 42 Telling Kentucky’s Story Kentucky Humanities celebrates 50 years with special events from Pikeville to Paducah

44 A Perfectly Personal Project Crystal Wilkinson mined her childhood memories to form a memoir of poetry that has struck a chord with readers across the country k e n t u c k y m o n t h l y. c o m 1

kentucky kwiz Test your knowledge of our beloved Commonwealth. To find out how you fared, see the bottom of Vested Interest.

THE KENTUCKY DERBY Celebrating the best of our Commonwealth

1. The first Kentucky Derby was in what year?

7. The Kentucky Derby is which leg of the Triple Crown?

A. 1890

A. Second

B. 1875

B. First

C. 1888

C. Third

Editorial Patricia Ranft Associate Editor

2. The Kentucky Derby is also known as what?

8. How many fillies have won the Kentucky Derby?

A. Run for the Roses

A. 3

Ted Sloan Contributing Editor

B. Dash for the Daisies

B. 2

Cait A. Smith Copy Editor

C. Sprint for the Sunflowers

C. 4

3. On what day is the Kentucky Derby usually run?

Rebecca Redding Creative Director Deborah Kohl Kremer Assistant Editor

Senior Kentributors Jackie Hollenkamp Bentley, Bill Ellis, Steve Flairty, Gary Garth, Janine Washle, Kim Kobersmith, Walt Reichert, Joel Sams, Tracey Teo and Gary P. West

A. The first Saturday in April

9. When was the Kentucky Derby first shown on national live television?

B. The second Saturday in May

A. 1961

Barbara Kay Vest Business Manager

C. The first Saturday in May

B. 1958

Jocelyn Roper Circulation Specialist

C. 1952 4. What is the age of Thoroughbreds that race in the Derby? A. 2-year-olds

10. In what year did the first female jockey have a mount in the Kentucky Derby?

B. 4-year-olds

A. 1964

C. 3-year-olds

B. 1970 C. 1975

Business and Circulation

Advertising Lindsey Collins Senior Account Executive and Coordinator Kelley Burchell Account Executive Teresa Revlett Account Executive For advertising information, call 888.329.0053 or 502.227.0053

KENTUCKY MONTHLY (ISSN 1542-0507) is published 10 times per year (monthly with combined December/ January and June/July issues) for $20 per year by

5. What was the name of the first Thoroughbred to win the Kentucky Derby?

11. What is the Kentucky Derby’s current length?

A. War Admiral

A. 1½ miles

B. Man o’ War

B. 2 miles

C. Aristides

C. 1¼ miles

Vested Interest Publications, Inc., 100 Consumer Lane, Frankfort, KY 40601. Periodicals Postage Paid at Frankfort, KY and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to KENTUCKY MONTHLY, P.O. Box 559, Frankfort, KY 40602-0559. Vested Interest Publications: Stephen M. Vest, president; Patricia Ranft, vice president; Barbara Kay Vest, secretary/treasurer. Board of directors: James W. Adams Jr., Dr. Gene Burch, Gregory N. Carnes, Barbara and Pete Chiericozzi, Kellee Dicks, Maj. Jack E. Dixon, Bruce and Peggy Dungan, Mary and Michael Embry,

6. What popular drink is associated with the Kentucky Derby?

12. The Kentucky Derby is called “the most exciting ____ _______ in sports.”

A. Mint julep

A. 2 minutes

B. Bourbon

B. 3 minutes

C. Beer

C. 5 minutes

“Kentucky Kwiz” courtesy of Karen M. Leet, author of Sarah’s Courage, a Kentucky historical novel, and co-author of Civil War, Lexington, Kentucky, historical nonfiction, both from The History Press. 2 KE NT U C K Y M O NT H LY APRI L 2 0 2 2

Thomas L. Hall, Judy M. Harris, Greg and Carrie Hawkins, Jan and John Higginbotham, Frank Martin, Bill Noel, Michelle Jenson McDonnell, Walter B. Norris, Kasia Pater, Dr. Mary Jo Ratliff, Barry A. Royalty, Randy and Rebecca Sandell, Kendall Carr Shelton and Ted M. Sloan. Kentucky Monthly invites queries but accepts no responsibility for unsolicited material; submissions will not be returned.

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Readers Write Kenton Series Kudos I wanted to share how much I enjoyed the Simon Kenton articles that ran in Kentucky Monthly from November 2021 to February 2022. I came to Kentucky Monthly to continue to enjoy the Kentucky Explorer section, and I have enjoyed the entire magazine, but the Kenton articles were superior. I love holding a physical book/ magazine in my hands, and these articles take me back to early school days, learning of adventurers and pioneers. There is not much frontier left to discover, so when a story takes you to a time long gone, it is something special. Being born near and living close to the area of Kentucky where a lot of

Kenton’s story takes place make them that much more enjoyable. Please keep up the great work, and I hope to see more articles of this nature. William Wright, Cynthiana

Ellis Accolades Every month after I read Bill Ellis’ column, I always think I would write him. So, today is the day. What I have wanted to say every month is how much I enjoy his column. It is well written and informative, and it always amazes me how much his experiences were similar to mine. Like Dr. Ellis, my degree is in history (MA). I also started coaching in 1966 at an all-Black high school in Memphis. I was there when Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was killed and saw everything that was wrong with the way people were treated. Like Dr. Ellis, I worry about the future of our country. I have always thought you can never

change history but can only learn from it. Also like Dr. Ellis, I enjoy A Christmas Story. I even identify with Ralphie, but for me, it was a baseball glove and not a BB gun. Thanks again. Continue the good work.

The Kentucky Gift Guide Kentucky Monthly is thrilled to partner with Kentucky Proud, bringing to your attention some of the finest handcrafted gifts and treats our Commonwealth has to offer.

Mike Grebe, Louisville • • •

I did not particularly love history in high school. Perhaps if Bill Ellis (“Past Tense/Present Tense” columnist) had been my teacher, I might have. I thoroughly enjoy his articles. I can’t decide which to read first— “Vested Interest” or “Past Tense/Present Tense.” I usually save the latter for later so I can savor it. Carole Jenkins, Prospect

Drink Local This handy guide to sipping in the Bluegrass State spotlights local breweries, wineries and, of course, distilleries. Discover unique ways

Correction:

to drink in Kentucky, creative cocktail recipes and more.

The website for Bourbon Manor Bed & Breakfast (March issue, page 23) should have been listed as bourbonmanor.com.

We Love to Hear from You! Kentucky Monthly welcomes letters from all readers. Email us your comments at editor@kentuckymonthly.com, send a letter through our website at kentuckymonthly.com, or message us on Facebook. Letters may be edited for clarification and brevity.

Find more at kentuckymonthly.com. Use your phone to scan this QR code and visit our website.

C O N N E C T.

UNITING KENTUCKIANS EVERYWHERE. k e n t u c k y m o n t h l y. c o m 3

travel

MAG ON THE MOVE

Even when you’re far away, you can take the spirit of your Kentucky home with you. And when you do, we want to see it!

Take a copy of the magazine with you and get snapping! Send your high-resolution photos (usually 1 MB or higher) to editor@kentuckymonthly.com or visit kentuckymonthly.com to submit your photo.

The Hendrix Family INDIANA (left) The Louisville family taveled to Michigan City, Indiana, where Scarlett Hendrix enjoyed the Lake Michigan beach. Scarlett is the daughter of Kentucky Monthly contributor Jesse Hendrix.

Pallas and John Vititoe ARIZONA (right) The Vititoes, California residents who spend their summers in Rineyville (Hardin County), drive between California and Kentucky twice each year and enjoy seeing quirky things on their journeys. Here they are “Standin’ on the corner in Winslow, Arizona.” John was born and raised in Hardin County.

4 K E NT U C K Y M O NT HLY APRI L 2 0 2 2

Marian Bennett and Family MINNESOTA Marian of Owensboro visited Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox in Bemidji, Minnesota, known as “The First City on the Mississippi River.’ She is pictured with five of her 10 grandchildren—Will (who lives in Minnesota) Grace (New York), Bennett (Indiana), Libby (Minnesota), and Samuel (Indiana).

Daniel Boone Country is Waiting for YOU! PICK UP YOUR ATTRACTIONS GUIDE AND MAP AT THESE TOURISM OFFICES: Barbourville Tourism Commission 606-545-9674 barbourvilletourism.com Clay County/ Manchester Visitors Center 606-598-0169 Corbin Tourism and Convention Commission 606-528-8860 corbinkytourism.com Cumberland Tourism Commission 606-589-5812 harlancountytourism.com Beattyville-Lee County Tourism 606-464-5038 visitleecountyky.com Harlan Tourist Commission 606-573-4156 harlancountytourism.com

Hazard-Perry County Tourism 606-487-1580 hazardperrycountytourism.com Irvine-Estill County Tourism Commission 606-723-2450 ExploreEstill.com Jackson County Tourism 606-287-8562 visitjacksoncountyky.com Letcher County Tourism & Convention Commission 606-634-1814 discoverletcher.com London-Laurel County Tourist Commission 606-878-6900, 800-348-0095 visitlondonky.com Middlesboro-Bell County Tourism 606-248-2482 bellcountytourism.com

Mt. Vernon-Rockcastle County Tourism 606-256-9814 rockcastletourism.com Owsley County Action Team (O.C.A.R.E. Inc.) 606-593-7296 www.exploreowsley.com Powell County Tourism Commission Slade Welcome Center 606-663-1161 gopoco.org Williamsburg Tourist Commission 606-549-0530 williamsburgky.com Wolfe County Tourism Commission 606.668.3040 visitwolfecounty.com

www.kentuckytourism.com/explore-kentucky/daniel-boone-country k e n t u c k y m o n t h l y. c o m 5

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Elaine and Georgia Turpin WASHINGTON, D.C. This photo of the mother-and-daughter duo from Harrodsburg was snapped at The George Washington University in September 2020, when Georgia was a freshman at the school.

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Sisters in the Sunshine State EUSTIS, FLORIDA Glema Daniels Layne and Joann Daniels Chaffins, originally from Coal Run Village (Pike County), took along their Kentucky Monthly magazine while enjoying the Florida sunshine.

k e n t u c k y m o n t h l y. c o m 7

cooking

Recipes and images provided by Chef Andy Becknell of Old Vine Bistro. Old Vine Bistro 400 Old Vine Street Lexington 859.523.4141 ovbistro.com

Springtime Fresh With the advent of spring and warmer days in the Bluegrass State, we begin to crave lighter fare. Fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs and fish speak to those cravings. These recipes, provided by Chef Andy Becknell of Lexington’s Old Vine Bistro, fit the bill in a delicious way. 8 KE NT U C K Y M O NT HLY A P R I L 2 0 2 2

This is a refreshing appetizer perfect for serving at a light cocktail party. The syrup can be made with either huckleberries or blueberries.

Watermelon and Whipped Feta Appetizer SERVES 8 1 medium watermelon, cut into biscuit-size rounds Whipped feta (recipe follows) Basil oil (recipe follows) Huckleberry or blueberry syrup (recipe follows) Fresh basil chiffonade

WHIPPED FETA ½ cup cream cheese, at room temperature

1. Place basil, water, garlic, salt and red pepper flakes into a small food processor. Pulse a few times and then leave running. 2. As processor is running, slowly drizzle in olive oil. Adjust seasonings to taste. 3. Pour into a squeeze bottle.

MAKES 1 SANDWICH Tip: I like to strain the basil oil with a fine-mesh strainer. It makes a clearer and cleaner-looking oil without bits of basil and garlic.

1 cup fresh feta cheese ¼ cup sour cream

2. Add feta and continue to mix another 3 minutes, scraping the sides. 3. Mix in sour cream and combine thoroughly. 4. Place into a container with a lid and refrigerate at least 3 hours before serving.

BASIL OIL ½ cup packed fresh basil, stemmed and washed 1 tablespoon water

1 chicken breast, grilled and sliced Apricot jam Spring mix of greens Brie cheese, sliced

HUCKLEBERRY OR BLUEBERRY SYRUP 1 cup huckleberries or blueberries

1. Place the cream cheese in the bowl of a stand mixer and beat until it becomes lighter and fluffier, 5-7 minutes, scraping the sides occasionally.

Chicken and Brie Sandwich

½ cup water 3 tablespoons sugar 3 tablespoons huckleberry jam or blueberry jam

Combine ingredients in a small sauce pot and simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until the mixture reaches the consistency of syrup.

1 4-inch baguette, sliced lengthwise Butter 1. Cover the bottom piece of bread with 2 slices of Brie, then add sliced chicken and spring mix. Smear apricot jam on top piece of bread. 2. Cook in a pan as you would a grilled cheese, until both sides are toasted and the Brie is melting. 3. Serve with fries or chips.

To assemble dish: 1. Place a dollop of whipped feta on each watermelon round. 2. Drizzle the huckleberry syrup and basil oil on top or around the plate. 3. Top with the fresh basil chiffonade (basil leaves cut into long, thin strips).

2 cloves garlic ½ teaspoon salt 1/

teaspoon red pepper flakes

¼ cup olive oil

k e n t u c k y m o n t h l y. c o m 9

cooking

Pesto Salmon with Couscous Salad and Fire-Roasted Brussels Sprouts SERVES 2

1 8-ounce salmon fillet 2 cups Brussels sprouts, halved (recipe follows) 1 tablespoon sweet Thai chili sauce (store bought) ½ cup Couscous Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette, chilled (recipe follows) Pesto (recipe follows)

2. Cook until the water has been absorbed and couscous has doubled in size. Let cool. Stir in the olive oil and toss to coat couscous. 3. In a medium-size bowl, combine couscous, tomatoes, onions, garlic, parsley, salt, pepper and vinaigrette. Cool in the refrigerator for an hour.

COUSCOUS SALAD WITH LEMON THYME VINAIGRETTE 1 cup couscous 1 cup water 2 tablespoons olive oil 3 tablespoons diced tomatoes 2 tablespoons diced red onions 1 tablespoon minced garlic 2 tablespoons finely chopped parsley Salt and pepper, to taste 4 tablespoons lemon thyme vinaigrette (recipe follows) 1. Combine couscous and water in small sauce pot and bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer and cover.

10 K E NT U C K Y M O NTHLY A P R I L 2 0 2 2

F I R E - R OA S T E D B R U S S E L S S P R O U T S Fry Brussels sprouts in oil at 350 degrees until crispy. Toss in the sweet Thai chili sauce.

P E S TO 2 cups basil, stemmed 2 tablespoons pine nuts or walnuts 2 cloves garlic

LEMON THYME VINAIGRETTE 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice 1 teaspoon minced garlic 1 tablespoon fresh thyme

½ cup fresh Parmesan cheese ½ cup extra virgin olive oil Salt and pepper to taste

Salt and pepper, to taste

1. Combine basil, nuts, garlic and Parmesan cheese in a small food processor until minced.

6 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

2. While processing, drizzle in the oil.

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

3. Season with salt and pepper. Combine all ingredients except the oil in a bowl and start to whisk. Slowly drizzle in oil as whisking, starting with a couple drops at a time to start the emulsion. Once started, slowly drizzle until all the oil is used.

Cook the salmon in a sauté pan until desired temperature and top with pesto before serving with Brussels sprouts and couscous salad.

KENTUCKY GATEWAY MUSEUM CENTER 215 Sutton Street Maysville, Kentucky 41056 606-564-5865 www.kygmc.org Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 10am-4pm The Old Pogue Experience located in the limestone building on the corner of sutton & west 2nd Streets kygmc campus

Browning Manufacturing: America's Pulley Maker focuses on the people and community of this powerhouse business located in Maysville, KY. At one time employing over 2,000 people, the exhibit highlights the pulleys, gears, sheaves, belts and other products manufactured here for more than 100 years.

On Display thru April 25th

k e n t u c k y m o n t h l y. c o m 11

B Y K A S I A PAT E R Midway artist Ellen Skidmore channels human experience in an unrestrained, emotionally eloquent way

Finding Her Voice

he Ellen Skidmore Retrospective, part of an exhibition that includes Matt and Karine Maynard of Maynard Studios and the Homage Equine Exhibit, is coming to Lexington’s Headley Whitney Museum of Art April 8-June 19. With Skidmore’s magical realist paintings, the exhibit will celebrate an artist who embraces “the whole package of life: the good as well as the bad,” as she says. She’s been painting for more than 30 years, developing a style that is distinct, imaginative and emotionally eloquent. Skidmore, who has a studio and by-appointment-only gallery in Midway, spoke with a stutter as a child and was on a quest to find her voice—literally, as “it was jumbled up somewhere in her throat” (a quote from her children’s book, Ellen, The Little Girl Who Found Her Voice), and figuratively, as it was waiting to be expressed in her chosen medium. She first invented and then established herself as a fine artist. Since Skidmore’s birth in 1963, much has been written on the healing attributes of creating art. Forging a connection between the mind and the body, art can soothe or disturb; comfort or provoke questions. Dr. Daniel Nahum, a Kentucky-based psychiatrist, once had a group activity in which he placed a large sheet of paper on a wall and asked patients to draw an image to express their emotions. “It was very therapeutic,” Nahum said, “as it allowed patients to work through their emotions.” For Skidmore, finding her voice was a long and bumpy road. She has an early childhood memory of looking up to 12 K E NT U C K Y M O NT HLY APRI L 2022

“Good Job” by Ellen Skidmore, image courtesy of Mary Rezny; photo of Skidmore by Maja Willow Linden

I F YO U G O : Ellen Skidmore Retrospective APRIL 8–JUNE 19 Headley Whitney Museum of Art 4435 Old Frankfort Pike, Lexington 859.255.6653 headley-whitney.org

k e n t u c k y m o n t h l y. c o m 13

the sky and feeling confused as to why she was here. The sky, serendipitously, plays a big part in her paintings. And it might have touched her subconscious: Soon after, Skidmore noticed that when she began to draw or paint, that feeling of intense questioning subsided. The sheer motion of putting a crayon or brush to paper made the budding artist feel peaceful and grounded. Growing up in Baltimore, Skidmore had a great-aunt who owned a jewelry store nearby. The great-aunt paid young Ellen a quarter to create little paintings or decorations on paper bags for her store. They were simple and fresh, and they brought joy and bursts of laughter from her auntie, which made Ellen feel good. “My family and art teachers always encouraged this joyful and unfettered approach,” Skidmore said, “and didn’t stick me in special art classes or make a big deal of it like parents do now.” Skidmore remembers that she wanted to do assignments in art class differently than the way it was instructed, not out of defiance but because she felt safe and uninhibited to create in her own way. Art became her sanctuary, and though Skidmore sensed early on that it was unique, she didn’t fully value it until later. • • •

Skidmore moved to the Bluegrass State in 1981 14 K E NT U C K Y M O NT HLY APRI L 2022

because she loved horses and was looking to join an art therapy program. Ironically, her speech impediment disqualified her from the art therapy class. To compensate, she went all in and decided to major in art at the University of Kentucky. While there, Skidmore was required to take music as part of her curriculum. She had played violin briefly as a child but really preferred sports and riding horses, which left little time for violin practice. Dan Mason, the UK Orchestra Concert chair, was her instructor. “Dan was very patient with me,” Skidmore acknowledged. “He would also give me free tickets to the philharmonic every Friday.” In time, Skidmore noticed that music soothed her. “It made me feel normal,” she said. Mason and Skidmore became friends, and she has captured him twice on canvas in “Bravo” and “Take a Bow,” an early surrealistic piece. Music seeps into Skidmore’s works with the presence of instruments: a girl raising a violin or a keyboard woven into a horse’s tail. Her process of painting the subject matter and background begins with the peaceful act of trying to make colors harmonize and brushstrokes synthesize into patterns and rhythms. “I want all that to comfort me and ground me and sing to me, and I don’t stop on a painting until it does,” she said. There is a lot of movement in Skidmore’s paintings,

Photos by Maja Willow Linden

“I WANT ALL THAT TO COMFORT ME AND GROUND ME AND SING TO ME, AND I DON’T STOP ON A PAINTING UNTIL IT DOES...”

even when the subject matter is still. The colors, lines and forms vibrate and syncopate. There are subtle etudes of gestures and sweeping large movements. She likes to paint to the sound of music—classical but also rock ’n’ roll: The Clash, The B-52s, the Talking Heads. And she likes her music loud. “It sets the tone for painting,” Skidmore said. Horses, much like music, have been a major force in Skidmore’s life. She has been riding them, connecting with them emotionally, and communicating non-verbally with them. “Horses are such healers,” she said. “They are so present and honest, and much more sensitive and intelligent than we give them credit for.” Horses are a recurring subject matter in her paintings. Big-bellied on tall slender legs, they often overpower the images with their large tranquil presence. Horses have pulled Skidmore through some rough life patches, and now, she repays the debt by being their advocate. A few years ago, she launched Throw Me a Carrot, LLC, with items sporting her whimsical designs for sale; part of the proceeds go to the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance, a charitable organization that provides retraining and rehoming for Thoroughbred racehorses following racing careers. Being an outspoken horse advocate, Skidmore admitted: “I didn’t last on the racetracks because I wouldn’t keep my mouth shut.” Her “two boys”—

Thoroughbreds that she rescued—are now 23 and 24. • • •

Skidmore’s reputation precedes her. Art dealers call her “tough,” but she knows how to fend for herself. She has been honing her art and business skills for three decades. Fans of Skidmore’s work love it because it is visceral and honest. She channels something real and unspoken that is universal. There is also comfort and exuberance in her paintings that grab the viewer before the viewer might grasp their meanings. Her images take the viewer into a different reality that does not conform to reason. They pull on the heartstrings and ignite the imagination. Sometime after college, Skidmore and her husband moved with their horses to Sedona, Arizona. She was in her early 30s and riding horses every day when she learned she was pregnant. “I thought my life was over,” she remembered. “Horses were everything for me then.” She told her doctor, sobbing, “I don’t think I am a mother type.” He looked at her and said, “Humans are animals. When you see your baby, your instinct will kick in.” It turned out that he was right. “I had no idea I could love anything as much as I have loved her,” said Skidmore about her daughter, Coco. k e n t u c k y m o n t h l y. c o m 15

aLast

Pour

16 K E NT U C K Y M O NT HLY APRI L 2022

Calls for

In Arizona, Skidmore boarded her horses near the Hopi Reservation. One day, she visited the reservation during the ritual dances. After the ceremony, she spoke to the chief, who told her: “We believe that people like you, who have a hard time speaking, are channels for other things. We believe you have a gift.” It was a life-changing moment for Skidmore. She realized her condition could guide her to her purpose. It helped her to get her ego out of the way and focus on painting. She was doing something she was born to do. Now while painting, Skidmore tries not to think about others. “If I paint from right where I am inside, then that is where there is an emotional connection,” she explained. She paints what is going on in her life— motherhood, being with her horses, dog walking, moving to a new town, spending time with a friend, saying goodbye, weeding the garden, going on a boat ride, sitting by a pond and feeling peaceful, sitting in an armchair and feeling stressed out. In her painting, Skidmore is channeling basic human experience in her own unrestrained, emotionally eloquent way. When the world news is particularly bleak, Skidmore feels especially drawn to painting. If there’s something troubling that she can do nothing about, she tries to combat that with fantasy and simplicity. When the 9/11 terrorist attacks occurred, she blocked the news. She didn’t want to talk about it. Instead, she created a series of paintings with two ballerinas stopping mid-practice. They are comforting each other with an embrace. It is an emotional and intuitive response to the world in trouble. That’s also where Skidmore’s depiction of subjects hovering over the earth comes from. Her fragile human figures often are floating, flying, as if the law of gravity didn’t apply to them. Out of the ugly, she creates something free and beautiful. When Skidmore doesn’t paint for a week or longer, she usually feels that something is wrong. “I get too much in my head,” she said. The act of painting grounds and liberates her at the same time. “It has always been there for me, and it heals me from life’s pain.” Q

B Y D E B O R A H KO H L K R E M E R PHOTOS BY REBECCA REDDING

A LOUISVILLE CLASSIC

Wagner’s Pharmacy has been taking care of people and horses for 100 years

Wagner’s Pharmacy 3113 South Fourth Street Louisville, 502.375.3800 wagnerspharmacy.com

including one between Leo and the famed trainer Woody Stephens. Lee recalls that, even after Stephens retired, he continued to do business with Wagner’s. “Woody and his wife, Lucille, would get all of their prescriptions, for the rest of their lives, from us,” Lee said. “We would ship them to them, wherever they were.” • • •

f the walls of Wagner’s Pharmacy could talk, imagine the stories they would tell. It is difficult to walk into the Louisville establishment without wondering about the wagers that were placed there, the horses that were trained by the patrons, and the Kentucky Derbys that were celebrated during its 100 years of business. Just a stone’s throw from Churchill Downs’ backside entrance, Wagner’s is a neighborhood staple for horse people as well as the community. It started in the early 1900s, when Leo Wagner was about 10 years old. He began delivering prescriptions on his bike for Hagen’s Pharmacy, located on the northeast corner of Central Avenue and Fourth Street. He learned the pharmacy trade as he grew up. When Mr. Hagen passed away, Leo borrowed money from his aunt and purchased the business in 1922, renaming it Wagner’s Pharmacy. “We still have the bill of sale, which was just under $4,000,” said Lee Wagner, 47, current general manager and Leo’s grandson. “I’m sure that was a lot of money back then.” Leo was known to extend credit to the horsemen who worked at the track, a kindness that formed a bond between them. They did business with Leo, and Leo waited until the trainers, grooms and stable hands got paid to be paid himself. Many friendships were formed, 18 K E NT U C K Y M O NT HLY APRI L 2022

By the 1960s, Leo’s son, Leo Wagner II, had gone to pharmacy school and was carrying on the family business. He moved it across the street to its current location at the corner of Fourth and Central, directly across the street from the entrance to Churchill’s backside. The younger Leo brought the original soda fountain from his father’s pharmacy, but because he wanted to cater to the nearby horsemen, he expanded the business to include a diner and added booths and tables. “The main reason he did that was to have his friends from the racetrack there,” Lee said. “He liked to eat breakfast with them and have them come over for lunch. He wanted them to have a place where they could hang out and discuss the races.” The combination diner and pharmacy filled the needs of the Churchill Downs regulars. “The horsemen could come over and get a meal, prescriptions filled, cigarettes— whatever they needed,” Lee said. “My dad loved the horses and loved the racetrack. [The horsemen] became a second family to him.” Lee said his father did not foresee Wagner’s Pharmacy becoming an extension of Churchill Downs, but he owned several horses and was a big promoter of the Kentucky Derby. Longtime sportswriter Billy Reed, who died in February, was a regular at Wagner’s. “Billy was a big racing fan and a fan of my father’s,” Lee said. “He used to say that, even though my dad was a pharmacist, he liked

Your source for all thingsDerby! to spread Derby fever and didn’t want to dispense the cure because he wanted it to go on, which was true. My dad was one of the biggest fans.” In 1965, Leo Wagner II bought a business called Becker & Durski Turf Goods, which specializes in customized jockey silks, saddle towels and blinkers, and screen print designs on T-shirts and hats. Horse owners can purchase silks onsite, selecting the colors and designs they want. Wagner’s has photos of the silks being made and of those same silks being worn by the jockeys as their mounts crossed the finish line. Wagner’s stopped filling prescriptions in 2014, but one of its best-selling items remains a medical aid created by Leo Wagner II. As a pharmacist, he tinkered with several compounds and created Wagner’s Racehorse Liniment, also known as Wagner’s RHL, to help ease equine athletes’ aching muscles. Over time, grooms and trainers who used it on the horses’ legs realized that the liniment helped their own achy hands. “We sell as much now for humans as we do for the horses,” Lee said. “We have a lot of orthopedic surgeons in town who send their patients to us. It is great for arthritis.” Wagner’s is open for breakfast and lunch, and, when Churchill Downs is open for racing, there is a steady stream of trainers, jockeys and exercise riders crossing the street to get a hot meal.

derbymuseumstore.com

• • •

Greg Foley, a Churchill Downs-based trainer, began coming to Wagner’s as a child with his late father, Dravo Foley, who was a longtime trainer. Greg Foley loves the old racing photos on the walls and enjoys going over his Daily Racing Form while eating his breakfast. “They really cater to the horse track people,” Foley said. “They know we don’t have much time, so they spoil us. And they know what we want to drink before we even sit down.” For more than 50 years, Wednesdays have been known as Roast Beef Special day, and Fridays feature the Fish Special. Wagner’s Hot Brown, Derby Sandwich and Breakfast Platter are menu favorites every day.

Kentucky Derby Museum Store has everything you need to celebrate the Kentucky Derby®! Derby hats. Jewelry. Handbags and bowties. Vintage Derby glasses. Fun tees and socks. Barware and decorations. Every purchase supports our mission and preserves the legacy of the Kentucky Derby for generations to come.

The clientele is a mix of horse people, University of Louisville students, and neighborhood regulars. With the horse racing memorabilia lining the walls, the familiar menu choices, and the friendly servers, everyone feels at home. “It is kind of that Cheers atmosphere—eventually, everybody gets to know each other,” Lee Wagner said. • • •

Kitchen manager Pam Pryor has worked at Wagner’s since 1999. 20 K E NT U C K Y M O NT HLY APRI L 2022

When Pam Pryor became a server at Wagner’s in 1999, she wasn’t aware of the establishment’s racetrack connection. In fact, she had never been to Churchill Downs. As the kitchen manager now, Pam loves to see regulars come in. “You never know who you will see or what you will hear,” she said, “but the atmosphere is homey.” Pam, a fan of the Diner’s Club Sandwich, has now been to Churchill many times over the years and loves the connection with the across-the-street neighbor. “Mr. Wagner, Lee’s dad, made this a historical place,” she said. “Wagner’s completes the trifecta—Churchill Downs, the Derby Museum and Wagner’s.” Growing up around the racetrack and working at the family business for many years have made horse racing a big part of Lee’s life. Although he gets inundated by people asking what horse he likes to win the Derby, he is always reluctant to say. “Many of these people I know so well have a horse in the race, so I just can’t help but root for them,” he said. “Besides, people usually bet with their heart anyway.” Like his father, Lee admits to getting Derby fever. He likes to run over to the backside of the track to watch the horses work out in the mornings leading up to the big race. “To see them in the early morning, right when the sun is coming up and the Twin Spires are in the background, there is something mystical about it,” he said. Q

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KENTUCKY

DERBY

FESTIVAL

The Board of Directors and staff, our 4,000 volunteers and more than 400 sponsors welcome you to one of America’s greatest community celebrations. This whirlwind of colorful activities is a wonderful time in this community, and we hope you enjoy it. The KENTUCKY DERBY FESTIVAL is a private, not-for-profit, community organization dedicated to providing unique entertainment for the Greater Louisville area. Entertaining more than 1.5 million people, the KENTUCKY DERBY FESTIVAL is one of the nation’s top festivals. With more than 70 special events, there is something for everyone.

Official Schedule of Events FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT KDF.ORG #KyDerbyFestival

BY JACKIE HOLLENKAMP BENTLEY Photos courtesy of the Kentucky Derby Festival

KENTUCKY

DERBY

FESTIVAL A little bit of history, a little bit of rock ’n’ roll, and a shot (or two or three) of bourbon are just a small portion of what you can experience during the return of the Kentucky Derby Festival this year. From crowning a Rose Julep champion, to viewing one of the best air shows and largest fireworks exhibitions in America, the list of events, parties, competitions and concerts making up the festival is extensive.

FAMILY FUN ACTIVE LIFESTYLE CULINARY ENTERTAINMENT + SOCIAL

24 K E NT U C K Y M O NTHLY APRI L 2 0 2 2

2022 SCHEDULE

k e n t u c k y m o n t h l y. c o m 25

FAMILY FUN THROUGH MAY 31

KENTUCKY DERBY FESTIVAL MAIN EVENT PEGASUS PIN TUESDAYS MAIN EVENT, 12500 SYCAMORE STATION PLACE Wear your Pegasus Pin® and get special deals and promotions, such as a walk-in special every day, and on Tuesdays, kids eat free with a food purchase of $8.99 or more. (*Kids 12 years old or younger.) More information at PegasusPins.com. Sponsor: Main Event.

APRIL 1-30

MAYOR’S GIVE A DAY: A CELEBRATION OF SERVICE Citywide effort of volunteering to help others. Help make Louisville the most compassionate city in the world. Individuals, companies and groups can volunteer online at MyGiveADay.com. Agencies and organizations that have projects needing volunteers can also add their information to the website.

APRIL 2

ZOELLER PUMP COMPANY KENTUCKY DERBY FESTIVAL TOURING PEGASUS® PARADE 10AM-6PM VARIOUS LOCATIONS

MAY 1 DOWNTOWN LOUISVILLE

ZOELLER PUMP COMPANY KENTUCKY DERBY FESTIVAL PEGASUS® PARADE The 2022 Zoeller Pump Company Kentucky Derby Festival Pegasus® Parade will spread the love and make history at the same time. For the first time in its 67 years, the beloved event is being held on a Sunday instead of the traditional Thursday before the Kentucky Derby. This year’s parade will march down Broadway on May 1 at 3 p.m. As part of the parade’s “Loving Louisville” theme, organizations with units in the event are encouraged to decorate with everything 26 K E NT U C K Y M O NTHLY APRI L 2 0 2 2

they love about the city—landmarks, icons, sports teams, music and a lot of hearts. “We want the community to help us showcase all the amazing things there are to love about Louisville,” Kentucky Derby Festival President and CEO Matt Gibson said. “We can’t wait to return to Broadway this spring and will be there to share lots of love for our city that’s supported the Derby Festival for more than 65 years.”

This traveling display takes the Derby Festival into the community and through neighborhoods to help kick off the spring celebration around the city. Routes will be shared ahead of the event to allow fans to decorate their homes and neighborhoods. Sponsor: Zoeller Pump Company. Contributing Sponsor: Kentucky Venues.

APRIL 8

CAESARS FOUNDATION OF FLOYD COUNTY KENTUCKY DERBY FESTIVAL FAMFEST 4-8PM NEW ALBANY Family-friendly event with a special preview of the 2022 Festival, featuring inflatables, mini

golf, bed races, face painting and more. First 1,000 attendees receive a custom event pin. Sponsor: Caesars Foundation of Floyd County. Media Sponsor: 102.3 JACK FM.

APRIL 16

KENTUCKY DERBY FESTIVAL BLOCK PARTY PRESENTED BY CHURCHILL DOWNS AND HUMANA 10AM-8PM NORTON HEALTHCARE SPORTS AND LEARNING CENTER Community celebration of Derbytime traditions, featuring local food, fare and fun. Plus, live entertainment showcasing local talent and family-friendly activities all day! Admission is free. Sponsors: Churchill Downs and Humana. Contributing Sponsor: Commonwealth Credit Union. Media Sponsor: REAL 93.1.

APRIL 16

BRIGHTSIDE COMMUNITYWIDE CLEANUP VARIOUS LOCATIONS THROUGHOUT LOUISVILLE Brightside encourages all residents to take part in the Community-Wide Cleanup. All cleanup teams will receive bags and gloves at no cost, and the first 5,000 volunteers to register will also receive a free T-shirt. Contact Brightside at Brightside@ louisvilleky.gov to participate.

APRIL 23

KENTUCKY DERBY FESTIVAL THUNDER OVER LOUISVILLE® DOWNTOWN LOUISVILLE RIVERFRONT, WATERFRONT PARK, RIVER ROAD AND SOUTHERN INDIANA SHORELINE FoodFest and Ford’s Thunder On the Ground open at 11AM, Airshow at 3PM, Fireworks at 9:30PM. All-day live coverage on WLKY TV and MIX 106.9. Featuring the Thunder Chow Wagon at Waterfront Park and the East River Road Beer Garden. Admission is free with a 2022 Pegasus Pin®. (Open 11AM–11PM. No tents, stakes,

tape or pets.) Meijer Family Fun Zone on the Belvedere. Admission is free with a 2022 Pegasus Pin®. (Open 2-11PM. No tents, stakes, tape or pets.) North Great Lawn area opens at 9AM. Admission is free with a 2022 Pegasus Pin®. (No tents, stakes, tape or pets.) 2022 Sponsors: Caesars Southern Indiana, Humana, LG&E, Meijer, and UPS. Thunder on the Ground Sponsor: Ford Motor Company. Official Sound Sponsor: Shepherd Insurance. Official Hotel: The Galt House Hotel. Command Center Sponsor: Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport. Official Boat and RV Sponsor: My Financing USA.

Louisville. Media Sponsor: MIX 106.9.

APRIL 29-30

KENTUCKY DERBY FESTIVAL GREAT BALLOONFESTSM Admission is free with a 2022 Pegasus Pin®. Contributing Sponsor: PNC Broadway in Louisville. Media Sponsor: MIX 106.9.

APRIL 30

KENTUCKY DERBY FESTIVAL GREAT BALLOON RACE® 7AM LAUNCH, BOWMAN FIELD

APRIL 23

THUNDER VIP ROOFTOP PARTY, PRESENTED BY NUMBER JUAN TEQUILA Tickets: $150 each or Premium VIP Table of 8, $2,000. Purchase at ThunderOverLouisville.org. Sponsor: Number JUAN Tequila.

APRIL 24

KENTUCKY DERBY FESTIVAL PLANES OF THUNDER STATIC DISPLAY PRESENTED BY T-MOBILE 10AM-3PM KENTUCKY AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE STANDIFORD FIELD Opportunity to see dozens of aircraft on display following their performance at Thunder Over Louisville. All patrons must reserve passes to event in advance, $10 KDF shuttle fee per person (children 6 and under free). Parking ONLY at Kentucky Exposition Center, $10 per vehicle. No parking is available on base. First 5,000 receive commemorative KDF Thunder wing pin. More information at ThunderOverLouisville.org.

APRIL 29

KENTUCKY DERBY FESTIVAL GREAT BALLOON GLOW 9PM NEW LOCATION: KROGER’S FEST-A-VILLE ON THE WATERFRONT Admission is free with a 2022 Pegasus Pin®. Contributing Sponsor: PNC Broadway in

Admission is free with a 2022 Pegasus Pin®. Public entrance off Pee Wee Reese Road. Contributing Sponsor: PNC Broadway in Louisville. Media Sponsor: MIX 106.9.

APRIL 30

THE CHILDREN’S TEA® WITH THE KENTUCKY DERBY FESTIVAL PRINCESSES, PRESENTED BY BIGELOW TEA 1-4PM, CHECK-IN 12:30PM, CROWNE PLAZA Children ages 4 and up are invited to meet the Kentucky Derby Festival Queen and Derby Princesses. Tickets $35 each. Reservation required. Purchase tickets online at FilliesChildrensTea2022.Eventbrite. com. For more information, contact Pam Hendrickson phendr2337@aol.com or 812.987.7645. Sponsor: Bigelow Tea. Contributing Sponsor: Davis Jewelers. Produced by The Fillies, Inc.

APRIL 30

KENTUCKY DERBY FESTIVAL KEN-DUCKY DERBY CALL TO THE POST 2PM KROGER’S FEST-A-VILLE ON THE WATERFRONT See the launch of 46,000 ducks into the Ohio River for a chance to race and compete for prizes. Proceeds benefit Harbor House of Louisville. Admission is free with a 2022 Pegasus Pin®. To adopt a

duck, visit gotducks.org. For more information go to KDF.org or call 502.717.0072. (Food, drink and pets are not permitted.) Presenting Sponsor: Swope Family of Dealerships. Media Sponsors: WLKY-TV and Summit Media.

MAY 1

ZOELLER PUMP COMPANY KENTUCKY DERBY FESTIVAL PEGASUS® PARADE 3PM WEST ON BROADWAY FROM CAMPBELL TO 9TH STREET This annual parade features colorful floats, marching bands, giant inflatables and equestrians. Bleacher tickets $10. VIP seating $35. Tickets available at KDF.org or call 502.584.FEST. Sponsor: Zoeller Pump Company. Official Hotel: The Galt House Hotel. Broadcast live on WAVE.

MAY 2

KENTUCKY DERBY FESTIVAL GREAT BED RACES 6PM PARADE OF BEDS. 7PM RACING, BROADBENT ARENA Admission is free with a 2022 Pegasus Pin®. $10 KEC parking. $150 entry fee for team of 5. Contributing Sponsors: Drexel Metals, Kentucky Venues, Safelite AutoGlass and Texas Roadhouse. Media Sponsor: 107.7 The Eagle. Broadcast special on WAVE.

MAY 14

SAMTEC KENTUCKY DERBY FESTIVAL FOUNDATION ROBORUMBLE REGIONAL ROBOTICS TOURNAMENT Doors open 8AM, competition begins 9AM, awards ceremony 3PM. MARION C. MOORE HIGH SCHOOL Regional STEM robotics competition allowing students to design, build and compete with robots. For more information, contact Tim Carrico at timothy. carrico@jefferson.kyschools.us. Title Sponsor: Samtec. Presented by Ford Motor Company and ZEON. Coordinated by Jefferson County Public Schools. A Kentucky Derby Festival Foundation Event.

k e n t u c k y m o n t h l y. c o m 27

ACTIVE LIFESTYLE THROUGH APRIL 30

APRIL 14-24

NORTON SPORTS HEALTH KENTUCKY DERBY FESTIVAL TRAINING PROGRAM

STOCK YARDS BANK KENTUCKY DERBY FESTIVAL $1 MILLION DOLLAR HOLE-IN-ONE GOLF CONTESTSM

15-week Training program for the GE Appliances Kentucky Derby Festival miniMarathon/Marathon. For more information, log on to DerbyFestivalMarathon.com. Sponsor: Norton Sports Health. Contributing Sponsors: GE Appliances, a Haier Company, and Swags Sport Shoes. Media Sponsor: 99.7 DJX.

April 14-24: 10AM-8:30PM (closed April 17 for Easter and April 23 for Thunder), April 24: 10AM-5PM, semi-finals 6PM SENECA GOLF COURSE DRIVING RANGE $1 per shot. April 16: Jr. Day – Under 18 get 2 shots for $1. April 18: First Responders and Veterans Day get 2 shots for $1. April 19: Ladies Day, Ladies get 2 shots for

$1. Weekdays: Senior Special 10AM-2PM, 62 and up get 2 shots for $1. Take a shot at $1 Million. Special promotions daily. Grand Prize: $1 million. First Prize (if no hole-in-one): $5,000. Sponsor: Stock Yards Bank. Contributing Sponsors: Capital Access Corporation – Kentucky and Louisville Parks & Recreation. Media Sponsor: WLKY TV.

APRIL 16

PNC KENTUCKY DERBY FESTIVAL TOUR de LOUSM

Staggered start based on distance: 62.1 Metric Century – 8AM, 35-mile ride – 8:15AM 20-mile ride – 8:30AM. Open course cycling event with three distances for beginners to experienced cyclists. NEW 1- to 3-mile Family Ride option at Waterfront Park. Entry fees and registration info at KDF.org. Sponsor: PNC. Official Medical Provider and Training Partner: UofL Health Sports Medicine. Contributing Sponsors: Scheller’s Fitness & Cycling and Upland Brewing Company. Media Sponsors: ALT 105.1 and 102.3

APRIL 30 LOUISVILLE

GE APPLIANCES miniMARATHON®/MARATHON It’s time to tie those running shoes and hit the road for this year’s GE Appliances miniMarathon®/Marathon. This year’s in-person race is set for Saturday, April 30. Returning runners and walkers will notice a more traditional course this year as opposed to the 2021 race that had to be modified for COVID-19 health and safety precautions. The miniMarathon will run 13.1 miles starting on Main

Street at Louisville Slugger Field, running through Churchill Downs, and finishing at Lynn Family Stadium, the home of Louisville City FC and Racing Louisville FC. The Marathon course will follow the miniMarathon course, then split at the 12.5-mile

28 K E NT U C K Y M O NT HLY APRI L 2 0 2 2

mark. Marathon runners will continue across the Big Four Pedestrian Bridge into Southern Indiana and run an outand-back route along the Ohio River Greenway before finishing at Lynn Family Stadium. “Our goal is to create a unique and memorable experience for all participants,” said Chris

Martini, KDF race director. “In 2022, the course for both races will include the sights of beautiful downtown Louisville, historic Old Louisville, Churchill Downs, and parts of the scenic Olmsted parks system, along with other attractions.” Participants can still choose a virtual option for both the half and full marathon. For details on the races, visit DerbyFestivalMarathon.com.

JACK FM. Supporting Sponsors: Louisville Bicycle Club and Louisville Water Company.

YARDS BANK KENTUCKY DERBY FESTIVAL $1 MILLION HOLE-IN-ONE GOLF CONTESTSM

APRIL 16

10AM-8:30PM Open daily through April 24. (Closed April 23.)

JUNIOR DAY AT STOCK YARDS BANK KENTUCKY DERBY FESTIVAL $1 MILLION HOLE-IN-ONE GOLF CONTESTSM 10AM-8:30PM Open daily through April 24. (Closed April 17-23.) SENECA GOLF COURSE DRIVING RANGE Under 18 get 2 shots for $1. Over 18 is $1 per shot. Grand Prize: $1 million. First Prize (if no hole-inone): $5,000. Sponsor: Stock Yards Bank. Contributing Sponsors: Capital Access Corporation – Kentucky and Louisville Parks & Recreation. Media Sponsor: WLKY TV.

APRIL 18

FIRST RESPONDERS AND VETERANS DAY AT STOCK

SENECA GOLF COURSE DRIVING RANGE First Responders and Veterans get 2 shots for $1. Other participants pay $1 per shot. Grand Prize: $1 million. First Prize (if no hole-inone): $5,000. Sponsor: Stock Yards Bank. Contributing Sponsors: Capital Access Corporation – Kentucky and Louisville Parks & Recreation. Media Sponsor: WLKY TV.

APRIL 19

LADIES DAY AT STOCK YARDS BANK KENTUCKY DERBY FESTIVAL $1 MILLION HOLE-IN-ONE GOLF CONTESTSM 10AM-8:30PM Open daily through April 24. (Closed April 23.)

SENECA GOLF COURSE DRIVING RANGE Ladies get 2 shots for $1. Other participants pay $1 per shot. Grand Prize: $1 million. First Prize (if no hole-in-one): $5,000. Sponsor: Stock Yards Bank. Contributing Sponsors: Capital Access Corporation – Kentucky and Louisville Parks & Recreation. Media Sponsor: WLKY TV.

APRIL 20

COLLEGE DAY AT STOCK YARDS BANK KENTUCKY DERBY FESTIVAL $1 MILLION HOLE-IN-ONE GOLF CONTESTSM 10AM-8:30PM Open daily through April 24. (Closed April 23.) SENECA GOLF COURSE DRIVING RANGE College students get 2 shots for $1. Other participants pay $1 per shot. Grand Prize: $1 million. First Prize (if no hole-in-one): $5,000. Sponsor: Stock Yards Bank. Contributing Sponsors: Capital

Access Corporation – Kentucky and Louisville Parks & Recreation. Media Sponsor: WLKY TV.

APRIL 23-MAY 1

KENTUCKY DERBY FESTIVAL VOLLEYBALL CLASSIC One of the country’s largest outdoor volleyball tournaments. For more information, call The Volleyball Connection/Tandem Sport 502.582.3530 or visit BaxterJacks.com. Contributing Sponsors: ASICS and Mikasa. Sand Divisions at Baxter Jacks APRIL 23-24: 9AM-6PM APRIL 30 AND MAY 1: 9AM-6PM Grass Divisions at Seneca Park at the Tennis Courts APRIL 30 AND MAY 1: 9AM-6PM

APRIL 24

STOCK YARDS BANK KENTUCKY DERBY FESTIVAL $1 MILLION

Dr. Black’s

22KYDF16885v3_Official Prod Ad_8.25x5.5.indd 1

3/4/22 2:41 PM

k e n t u c k y m o n t h l y. c o m 29

ACTIVE LIFESTYLE FESTIVAL miniMARATHON®/ MARATHON 7:30AM Kentucky’s largest day of road racing with both 13.1 mile and 26.2 mile routes. Free for spectators. For more information, visit DerbyFestivalMarathon.com. Sponsor: GE Appliances, a Haier Company. Official Race Medical Provider & Training Partner: Norton Sports Health. Official IT Partner: Deloitte. Contributing Sponsors are Churchill Downs, Kentucky Department of Tourism, Louisville Water Company, Powerade and VyFy Wellness Club. Official Finish Line Sponsor: Louisville City FC/Racing Louisville FC. Official Finish Line Nutrition: Kentucky Proud. Official Bourbon: Bardstown Bourbon. Official Pace Team: Dick’s Sporting Goods. Official Credit Union: Commonwealth Credit Union. Official Hotel: The Galt House. Official Tequila: Don Julio. Official Beer: Goodwood Brewing. Official Refuel Partner: Prairie Farms.

HOLE-IN-ONE GOLF CONTESTSM SEMI-FINALS 6PM SENECA GOLF COURSE DRIVING RANGE Grand Prize: $1 million. First Prize (if no hole-in-one): $5,000. Sponsor: Stock Yards Bank. Contributing Sponsors: Capital Access Corporation – Kentucky and Louisville Parks & Recreation. Media Sponsor: WLKY TV.

APRIL 26

STOCK YARDS BANK KENTUCKY DERBY FESTIVAL $1 MILLION DOLLAR HOLE-IN-ONE CONTESTSM FINALS 6PM SENECA GOLF COURSE, HOLE NO. 8 Free for spectators. Grand Prize: $1 million. First Prize (if no hole-inone): $5,000. Sponsor: Stock Yards Bank. Contributing Sponsors: Capital Access Corporation – Kentucky and Louisville Parks & Recreation. Media Sponsor: WLKY TV.

APRIL 28-29

DICK’S SPORTING GOODS KENTUCKY DERBY FESTIVAL RACE EXPO AND PACKET PICKUP KENTUCKY INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION CENTER, HALL B Two-day expo where you can see the latest running gear, get nutritional advice, pre-race running tips and pick up your race packet for the GE Appliances Kentucky Derby Festival miniMarathon®/ Marathon. Sponsor: Dick’s Sporting Goods. Contributing Sponsor: Kentucky Venues. Official Bourbon: Bardstown Bourbon. Media Sponsor: 99.7 DJX. Thursday: 4-8PM Expo and Packet Pickup. Friday: 11AM-9PM Expo and Packet Pickup

APRIL 29

KENTUCKY DERBY FESTIVAL NEIGH-MASTE ON THE WATERFRONT NOON-1PM KROGER’S FEST-A-

30 K E NT U C K Y M O NT HLY APRI L 2 0 2 2

VILLE ON THE WATERFRONT, GREAT LAWN Relax and recharge at this yoga event at the Waterfront. Admission is free with a 2022 Pegasus Pin®. (Food, drink and pets are not permitted.)

APRIL 29

KENTUCKY DERBY FESTIVAL OHIO VALLEY WRESTLING RUN FOR THE ROPES 6-7:30PM KROGER’S FEST-A-VILLE ON THE WATERFRONT, GREAT LAWN Special meet-and-greet with OVW stars at 5PM, followed by six big matches, including a special “Every Man for Himself Free-forAll” over the top rope Battle Royal. Admission is free with a 2022 Pegasus Pin®. For more information, call 502.759.7665. (Food, drink and pets are not permitted.) Presented by Ohio Valley Wrestling.

APRIL 30

GE APPLIANCES KENTUCKY DERBY

APRIL 30

KENTUCKY DERBY FESTIVAL NPC DERBY CHAMPIONSHIPS PRE-JUDGING 10AM, Finals 6PM KENTUCKY INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION CENTER A fitness, figure, swimwear and bodybuilding competition featuring amateurs and pro athletes from across the country. Pre-judging tickets: $25. Finals tickets: $30 general admission, $35 reserved seating, $40 VIP. For tickets, call 502.387.3808 or visit KentuckyMuscle.com.

MAY 3

KENTUCKY DERBY FESTIVAL CHOW WAGON KICKBALL SHOWDOWN 5:30-11PM KROGER’S FEST-A-VILLE ON THE WATERFRONT, GREAT LAWN Coordinated by: LXC Sports. For more information, visit LXCSports. com/league/25806/details. (Food, drink and pets are not permitted.)

A SPECIAL MILESTONE Since 1973, the Kentucky Derby Festival Pegasus Pin has allowed attendees from around the world access to the festival’s 70-plus events. To mark its golden edition, this year’s Pegasus Pin was designed with the number 50 as a holographic image and the Louisville skyline to symbolize the Derby Festival’s connection with the community. “Celebrating the 50th year for the Pegasus Pins will make this year’s Derby Festival even more special,” said Matt Gibson, KDF president and CEO. “As always, these pins are an incredible value, providing free admission into many of the Festival’s events. Plus, any pin could make you a Weekly Prize winner.” This year’s weekly grand prizes include an Evan Williams Bourbon Experience Speakeasy Bourbon Party, a $3,000 Ashley HomeStore Shopping Spree, and gift cards to restaurants and retail shops. Those who find and register a Gold Winner Pegasus Pin also have a chance to win a 2022 Honda HR-V. The 50th edition pins are available at retail locations, including grocery stores, gas stations, banks, and other retail

outlets in Kentuckiana from Elizabethtown to Louisville, as well as in southern Indiana. They can also be purchased online at PegasusPins.com. They sell for $6 each online and at retail outlets and $7 at Festival events.

THUNDER OVER LOUISVILLE

The Legend Returns

SATURDAY, APRIL 23

AIRSHOW 3 PM | FIREWORKS 9:30 PM

Your moment. Your memories. Your Festival.

It’s time to return to tradition! The Kentucky Derby Festival is back and in-person, with a special tribute to the Air Force’s 75th anniversary to celebrate those who innovate, accelerate and thrive. You can elevate your experience even more at the VIP Rooftop Party.

VIP tickets at THUNDEROVERLOUISVILLE.ORG PRESENTED BY

#THUNDEROVERLOUISVILLE    YOUTUBE

CULINARY APRIL 14

REPUBLIC BANK KENTUCKY DERBY FESTIVAL BOURBONVILLE® 6-9PM FRAZIER HISTORY MUSEUM Taste signature drinks from Kentucky’s bourbon distilleries, enjoy bourbon-inspired cuisine, and meet the master distillers. Tickets: $50 General Admission; $85 Bardstown Bourbon VIP Lounge. General admission tickets include bourbon and food tastings, commemorative glass and BourbonVille pin. VIP includes complete event experience, plus 5PM early access and premium gift bag. (21 and over only. Must present ID upon entry.) Tickets available by calling 502.584.FEST or online at KDF.org. Sponsor: Republic Bank. VIP Sponsor: Bardstown Bourbon. Media Sponsors: 107.7 The Eagle and TOPS Louisville.

ROSE JULEP COCKTAIL COMPETITION When you think of the Mint Julep, images of Churchill Downs, fast horses and, of course, a mint-garnished libation come to mind. So it’s only natural that the Kentucky Derby Festival partners with Four Roses Bourbon to celebrate the famous drink by holding a statewide competition to see which bartender can make the best, unique Mint Julep.

Food & Drink (Covington), Colleen McCarthy of Martini Italian Bistro (Louisville), Giacomo Ciminello of Woodburn Brewing (Cincinnati), Isaac Fox of La Chasse (Louisville), Jason Stark of Martini Italian Bistro (Louisville), Mark Corley of The Silver Dollar (Louisville), and Natalie White and Oliver Winn of Belle’s Cocktail House (Lexington).

For the first time ever, Four Roses invited only previous winners of the Rose Julep Cocktail Competition to go head to head in March to determine which creative julep recipe of the past truly stands out above the others.

The eight mixologists handcrafted julep recipes all their own, using either Four Roses Bourbon, Four Roses Small Batch or Four Roses Single Barrel, along with an array of unique ingredients, including habanero bitters, lemongrass and pear syrup, Andes mints, and orange blossom water.

The competitors were Bill Whitlow of Rich’s Proper

32 K E NT U C K Y M O NTHLY APRI L 2 0 2 2

Miller Lite Beer Garden. Admission is free with a 2022 Pegasus Pin®. (Food, drink and pets are not permitted.) Sponsors: Kroger and Miller Lite. Supporting Sponsors: Kentucky Association of Health Plans.

APRIL 28-MAY 6

KENTUCKY DERBY FESTIVAL FLAVORS OF FEST-A-VILLE Open daily 11AM-11PM, weekdays ONLY. KROGER’S FESTA-VILLE ON THE WATERFRONT Featuring $2 to $4 samples of festival food. Enjoy a variety of Fest-a-Ville flavors at this great new event. Admission is free with a 2022 Pegasus Pin®. (Food, drink and pets are not permitted.)

MAY 1

APRIL 26

MAYOR’S DERBY BRUNCH ON THE RIVER

KENTUCKY DERBY FESTIVAL “TASTE OF DERBY FESTIVAL®”

11AM-1:30PM RIVERSIDE, THE FARNSLEY-MOREMEN LANDING

5:30-8PM LOUISVILLE SLUGGER FIELD Features exquisite fare from more than 30 of Louisville’s finest restaurants, plus bourbon distilleries and beverage companies. Highlights this year include an expanded Wine Pull raffle and a Spirits Pull. Tickets $90, available in advance only. Coordinated by Dare to Care Food Bank. All proceeds to benefit Dare to Care. For more information, call 502.966.3821 or visit tasteofderbyfestival.org. Sponsor: Brown-Forman Corporation.

APRIL 28-MAY 6

KENTUCKY DERBY FESTIVAL CHOW WAGON® Open daily 11AM-11PM, except Sunday NOON-10PM, Closed Monday, MAY 2. KROGER’S FESTA-VILLE ON THE WATERFRONT Outdoor food and live music venue. Featuring the Music Stage Presented by ZYN. Happy Hour Weekdays 4-6PM, $3 beer at the

A festive brunch featuring a traditional Kentucky breakfast, music, live auction, and tours of the property, including the Moremen Family Chapel. Tickets $100. For tickets or information, call 502.935-6809 or visit Riverside-Landing.org.

MAY 1

KENTUCKY DERBY FESTIVAL SUNDAY FUNDAY DRAG SHOW BRUNCH 1-3PM KROGER’S FEST-A-VILLE ON THE WATERFRONT, CHOW WAGON MUSIC STAGE A Drag Show featuring some of Louisville’s finest entertainers. Admission is free with a 2022 Pegasus Pin®. Food and drinks available for purchase. $150 VIP Experience includes prime seating for a table of 6, $50 in food and drink tickets, and a special swag bag for each VIP guest. Coordinated by Louisville Pride Foundation. (Food, drink and pets are not permitted.)

MAY 2

KENTUCKY DERBY FESTIVAL KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS CHARITY DINNER 5:30PM social hour; 6:45PM opening ceremonies; 7PM dinner. GALT HOUSE ARCHIBALD COCHRAN BALLROOM Dinner tickets, $50. Coordinated by the Bishop Spalding Council of the Knights of Columbus. For tickets, call 502.893.2220.

MAY 3

KENTUCKY PROUD KENTUCKY DERBY FESTIVAL WINEFEST Wine tasting sessions 5-9PM LOUISVILLE SLUGGER STADIUM Tickets: $15 Non-drinking Designated Driver; $50 General Admission; $85 VIP Experience (limited availability). General admission tickets include wine tastings, cooking demonstrations,

souvenir glass and WineFest pin. VIP includes reserved entrance, local cuisine sampling, opportunity to barrel taste local wine, goody bag and access to private restrooms. (21 and over

only. Must present ID upon entry.) Tickets available by calling 502.584.FEST or online at KDF.org. Sponsor: Kentucky Proud. Contributing Sponsors: Commonwealth Credit Union,

Restore Hyper Wellness and Whet Your Palette. Media Sponsors: Today’s Woman and MIX 106.9. Supporting Partner: Kentucky Winery Association.

KROGER’S

FEST-A-VILLE

APRIL 28 – DERBY EVE (CLOSED MONDAY, MAY 2)

ON THE WATERFRONT

Your taste. Your tune. Your Festival. It’s time to return to tradition! Kroger’s Fest-A-Ville is back and in-person. From concerts to delicious food & drinks, immerse yourself in this festival experience.

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APRIL 28-MAY 6 WATERFRONT PARK, LOUISVILLE

KROGER’S FEST-A-VILLE ON THE WATERFRONT Now in its 14th year, Kroger’s Fest-aVille is making a name for itself as the ultimate entertainment experience, complete with concerts, food, hotair balloon displays, midway rides, helicopter rides and even professional wrestling. For the first time this year, the Kentucky Derby Festival also is offering festivalgoers the chance to sample all the foods from the beloved Chow Wagon. Flavors of Fest-a-Ville will be open weekdays from 11 a.m.-1 p.m., and for $2 to $4, folks can sample the offerings from each food vendor. 34 K E NT U C K Y M O NT HLY APRI L 2 0 2 2

Aimee Boyd, KDF’s vice president of communications, said organizers strive to make Fest-a-Ville fun for everyone, no matter the age, and provide musical entertainment at Waterfront Jam that features various genres. “Our goal is always to offer something for every demographic of the community,” she said. “Triangle Talent—along with SummitMedia and Alpha Media—all assist us in making this happen. And we could not possibly do what we do without the support of Kroger.” Among those hitting the stages are country music star J.D. Shelburne,

local rock legends The Crashers, funk/soul artists Joslyn & The Sweet Compression, and hip-hop star Rob Base, to name a few. “We have a lot of local and regional talent on multiple stages this year and will culminate with our Zyn Derby Eve Jam featuring Parker McCollum with special guest Blanco Brown,” Boyd said. A 2022 KDF Pegasus Pin® will get you into the 900,000-square-foot venue. But check kdf.org for additional prices of select events inside Fest-a-Ville.

APRIL 9

THE FILLIES DERBY BALL PRESENTED BY DILLARD’S AND TOTAL WINE & MORE Cocktails, 6PM; call to the post/ doors open, 7PM; queen’s coronation, 7:30PM.; dinner, 8PM; dancing 9PM-MIDNIGHT featuring The Crashers. THE GALT HOUSE,GRAND BALLROOM VIP Table for 10 is $3,000, includes dinner and dancing. Produced by The Fillies, Inc. For ticket, visit KDF.org or call 502.584.FEST. Portion of proceeds benefits Kentucky Derby Festival Foundation. Presenting Sponsors: Dillard’s and Total Wine & More. Media Sponsor: TOPS Louisville.

APRIL 22

KENTUCKY DERBY FESTIVAL THEY’RE OFF!® LUNCHEON

Contributing Sponsors: Fifth Third Bank, Heartland, Official HR Company: HR Affiliates, The Galt House Hotel. Media Sponsor: Business First.

Monday, May 2. WATERFRONT PARK

APRIL 22

KENTUCKY DERBY FESTIVAL TRIPLE CROWN TRIVIA AND AFTER PARTY 7 -11:30PM MELLWOOD ART CENTER, VAN GOGH BALLROOM A wonderful evening of Kentucky-themed trivia, Poise Models Fashion Show, dancing, live band, silent auction and casino-style games. All funds raised support I Would Rather Be Reading. Tickets $50. For ticket information, call 502.710.9710 or visit iwouldratherbereading.org/ triplecrowntrivia.

11:30AM THE GALT HOUSE EAST, GRAND BALLROOM

KROGER’S FEST-A-VILLE ON THE WATERFRONTSM

Tickets: $680 table of 8 or $85 each. Official Kentucky Derby Festival kickoff luncheon.

Open daily 11AM-11PM, except Sunday NOON-10PM. Closed

KENTUCKY DERBY FESTIVAL LOUISVILLE YOUTH ORCHESTRA CONCERT

Ultimate entertainment experience featuring concerts with national talent, family fun, food, kids’ inflatable playground and midway rides. Admission is free with a 2022 Pegasus Pin®. (Food, drink and pets are not permitted.) Sponsor: Kroger. Stage Sponsor: ZYN. Supporting Sponsor: Kentucky Association of Health Plans. Beer Garden Sponsor: Miller Lite.

An afternoon of pops music by all ensembles of the Louisville Youth Orchestra. Admission is free with a 2022 Pegasus Pin®. For more information, call 502.896.1851 or visit LYO.org.

APRIL 30

MAY 2

KENTUCKY DERBY FESTIVAL GOSPELFESTSM PRESENTED BY PASSPORT HEALTH PLAN BY MOLINA HEALTHCARE AND REPUBLIC BANK

KENTUCKY DERBY FESTIVAL STEAMBOAT RACE TRIAL PRESENTED BY TRILOGY HEALTH SERVICES

7-9 PM. New location: KROGER’S FEST-A-VILLE ON THE WATERFRONT

APRIL 28-MAY 6

MAY 1

Gospel Choir Showcase. Admission is free with a 2022 Pegasus Pin®. Sponsors: Passport Health Plan by Molina Healthcare and Republic Bank. Media Sponsor: B96.5 FM.

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10:30AM boarding, 11AM-1PM cruise. Cruise on the Belle of Louisville as the boat makes a practice run in preparation for the Great Steamboat Race. Tickets include lunch and live entertainment. Tickets $45 (limited availability). Tickets available by calling

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MAY 5

KENTUCKY DERBY FESTIVAL DAY AT THE DOWNS PRESENTED BY KENTUCKIANA HONDA DEALERS 11:30AM New location: CHURCHILL DOWNS, FOURTH FLOOR, SKYE TERRACE SOLD OUT. Sponsor: Kentuckiana Honda Dealers. Contributing Sponsors: Baird and SoIN Tourism. Media Sponsors: The Voice-Tribune and MIX 106.9.

MAY 5

KROGER’S FEST-A-VILLE THURSDAY CONCERT Parker McCollum, left, will appear at the ZYN Derby Eve Jam, along with special guest Blanco Brown, right. 502.584.FEST or online at KDF.org. Sponsor: Trilogy Health Services. Contributing Sponsor: The Good Feet Store.

MAY 3

KENTUCKY DERBY FESTIVAL HAPPYTAIL HOUR 1-4PM KROGER’S FEST-A-VILLE ON THE WATERFRONT, GREAT LAWN A pet-friendly (leashes please!) social event. Admission is free with a 2022 Pegasus Pin®. (Food and drink are not permitted.) Coordinated by Metro Animal Services.

MAY 3

KENTUCKY DERBY FESTIVAL TEXAS HOLD’EM TOURNAMENT 4PM boarding and check-in; 6PM tournament begins, plus onehour cruise. BELLE OF CINCINNATI, DOCKED AT KROGER’S FEST-AVILLE ON THE WATERFRONT $125 buy-in includes 10,000 in chips and commemorative pin. Add-ons available first hour of play $40 for 4,000 chips. $5,000 1st-place prize. Payouts for 1st-24th place. Payouts based on 325 players; payouts pro-rated based on actual number of players. $15 for guests. LICENSE#

ORG0001638. Register by calling 502.584.FEST or online at KDF.org.

MAY 3

KROGER’S FEST-A-VILLE TUESDAY CONCERT 8PM KROGER’S FEST-A-VILLE ON THE WATERFRONT, GREAT LAWN Admission is free with a 2022 Pegasus Pin®. VIP Viewing Tickets $25 online at KDF.org. (Food, drink and pets are not permitted.) Media Sponsors: B96.5 FM and MAGIC 101.3.

MAY 4

LIBERTY FINANCIAL KENTUCKY DERBY FESTIVAL GREAT STEAMBOAT RACE 4:30-5:30PM boarding; 5:45PM departure; 6PM race begins. The Belle of Louisville, Belle of Cincinnati and American Countess will compete for bragging rights on the Ohio River. Awards presentation immediately following at the Chow Wagon in Kroger’s Fest-a-Ville. Tickets on the Belle of Louisville $165 (limited availability). For Belle of Louisville tickets, call 502.584.FEST or visit KDF.org. Tickets on the Belle of Cincinnati $80 cruise only; $125 dinner and cruise. For Belle of Cincinnati tickets, call 1-800-261-

36 K E NT U C K Y M O NT HLY APRI L 2 0 2 2

8586 or visit BBRiverboats.com. Free spectator viewing at Kroger’s Fest-a-Ville and along the banks of the Ohio River. Sponsor: Liberty Financial, Contributing Sponsors: Brough Brothers Bourbon and PPL Therapeutic Services, PLLC. Supporting Sponsor: Creative Charters. Media Sponsor: Q103.1. Official Bourbon: Brough Brothers Bourbon.

8PM KROGER’S FEST-A-VILLE ON THE WATERFRONT, GREAT LAWN Free admission for any school employee (with ID) courtesy of Class Act Federal Credit Union. General Admission is free with a 2022 Pegasus Pin®. VIP Viewing Tickets $25, online at KDF.org. (Food, drink and pets are not permitted.) Supporting Sponsor: Class Act Federal Credit Union.

MAY 6 MAY 4

KENTUCKY DERBY FESTIVAL LOUISVILLE URBAN LEAGUE DERBY GALA Doors open at 5:30PM NORTON HEALTHCARE SPORTS AND LEARNING CENTER Gala created in 2017 for the community. The Isley Brothers, featuring Ronald Isley and Ernest Isley, will headline this year’s event. All proceeds benefit the Louisville Urban League. Tickets: $350. Tickets on sale at LUL.org/ events/derby-gala or 502.585.4622.

MAY 4

KROGER’S FEST-A-VILLE WEDNESDAY CONCERT 8PM KROGER’S FEST-A-VILLE ON THE WATERFRONT, GREAT LAWN Admission is free with a 2022

PARKER McCOLLUM, WITH SPECIAL GUEST BLANCO BROWN AT ZYN DERBY EVE JAM 8PM KROGER’S FEST-A-VILLE ON THE WATERFRONT Admission is free with a 2022 Pegasus Pin®. (Food, drink and pets are not permitted.) Sponsors: Kroger and ZYN.

MAY 13

PEGASUS PIN® GOLD PIN WINNER GRAND PRIZE DRAWING Any Pegasus Pin® is your chance to win a weekly grand prize beginning Friday, March 18- Friday, May 6! Gold Winner Pins are eligible to win a new $15,000 cash prize given away on Friday, May 13. To be eligible, register pins online at PegasusPins.com. Drawings broadcast on WAVE.

Grant at

200

As Ohio River Valley communities observe the anniversary of the Union Army general’s birth, Grant’s Maysville ties are remembered

BY JACK BRAMMER

“On April 27, 1822, Ulysses S. Grant was born in Point Pleasant, Ohio, tucked away in the rural southwestern corner of the state near Cincinnati. The tiny, boxy house, constructed of wood and painted white, stood a short stroll from the Ohio River with Kentucky clearly visible on the far shore.”

o begins Pulitzer Prize-winning author Ron Chernow’s acclaimed 2017 biography Grant. It details the life of an ordinary man who became extraordinary by leading the North to victory in the Civil War and becoming the 18th president of the United States. In this 200th anniversary year of Ulysses S. Grant’s birth, his hometown and several nearby communities in the Ohio River Valley are planning an array of birthday celebrations, including concerts, speeches, dances and dinners. About 40 miles upriver from Point Pleasant in Maysville, Kentucky, attention is being drawn to Grant’s stay there as a student at the private Maysville Academy from 1836-37. He boarded with the widow of his well-to-do uncle, Peter Grant, who is buried in the frontier graveyard behind the Kentucky Gateway Museum Center in Maysville. “We are excited about presenting to as many people as possible this year the land where Grant was born and grew up,” said Greg Roberts, vice president of Historic New Richmond Inc., a historical society in New Richmond, Ohio, that oversees the Grant birthplace. The society is under the auspices of the Ohio History Connection, a statewide history organization based in Columbus. Roberts has been associated with the birthplace in the small unincorporated community of Point Pleasant since 1990. Its population is about 50. “In 1922, on Grant’s 100th birthday, more than 30,000 people—along with President

38 K E NT U C K Y M O NT HLY APRI L 2022

Warren G. Harding—came to the birthplace,” said Roberts, surmising that many in the audience were elderly Civil War veterans who wanted to honor Grant. “I don’t think we will get 30,000 this year, but I do expect many will want to visit the land where Grant lived as a boy. It’s a land rich in history.” GRANT’S MAYSVILLE CONNECTIONS In their 1983 book Maysville Kentucky: From Past to Present in Pictures, the late Jean Calvert and John Klee, a history professor at Maysville Community and Technical College, included a photo of the Maysville Academy, a two-story brick building at 109 West Fourth Street. The photo’s caption reads, “In the fall of 1836, Ulysses S. Grant attended classes there. He came from his native Ohio to stay at the home of Peter Grant, his uncle.” The caption noted that Grant’s nickname at the school was “Toad” and that he was popular with his classmates. Not so well known, the caption said, is that Grant’s father, Jesse Root Grant, came to Maysville in 1810 and worked as an apprentice in Peter Grant’s tannery. Peter Grant, who also made money in the salt and river shipping businesses, married Permelia Bean in Maysville in 1807. He died in 1825 from drowning in the Kanawha River near what is now Point Pleasant, West Virginia. His widow let 14-year-old Ulysses live with her and her family while he attended the Maysville Academy. Peter and Permelia Grant had 10 children. Her home was on Front Street, where the

It first was an all-boys’ school but later became coeducational. Other well-known people who attended the school included Walter N. Haldeman, founder and president of Louisville’s Courier-Journal newspaper; William H. Wadsworth, ambassador to Chile; John J. Crittenden, U.S. attorney general; Union Gen. William “Bull” Nelson; Kentucky Poet Laureate Henry Thomas Stanton; and historian Richard H. Collins, the son of Lewis Collins, who wrote the classic work History of Kentucky. Maysville Academy, where Grant was a student from 1836-37. The Grant attended the school for one year. building was razed in 1997. In Personal Memoirs of U.S. Grant, considered by many to be the best book ever written by a U.S. French Quarter Inn, a popular hotel, is now located. president, Grant wrote, “From the age of six until Young Ulysses may have been exposed to abolitionist seventeen, I attended the subscription schools of the ideas in Maysville, since his uncle had been head of the village, except during the winters of 1836-37 and 1838-39. local abolitionist society, said G.L. Corum of West Union, The former period was spent in Maysville, Kentucky, Ohio, author of the 2015 book Ulysses Underground: The attending the school of Richardson and Rand; the latter in Unexplored Roots of U.S. Grant. Ripley, Ohio, at a private school. I was not studious in “He opposed slavery in the Civil War and as president habit, and probably did not make progress enough to tried to dismantle the Ku Klux Klan after the war,” Corum compensate for the outlay for board and tuition.” said. “He grew up in places, including Maysville, among The Maysville Academy closed in 1868. Over the years, people who wanted to end slavery without severing the various families lived in the building, which was United States.” condemned in 1983. The city took possession of it in 1997 In 1829, a local contractor, Thomas D. Richardson, built and later razed it. the Maysville Academy, also known as the Maysville In 1977, the Kentucky Historical Society installed a marker Seminary. Two noted scholars, Jacob W. Rand and William in front of the former academy. It incorrectly states that W. Richeson, opened the school in 1830 and served as Grant stayed with his uncle while attending the school. instructors. k e n t u c k y m o n t h l y. c o m 39

The Ulysses S. Grant statue in Georgetown, Ohio, was dedicated in 2012; right, Grant’s boyhood home.

After leaving the Maysville Academy, Grant attended the Rev. John Rankin’s academy in Ripley, Ohio, about 10 miles downriver from Maysville. Rankin was involved in the Underground Railroad, and his home, which sits atop a hill at Ripley, provides a magnificent view of the Ohio River. The cottage where Grant was born in Point Pleasant was the home of the Grant family for less than a year. Grant’s father had saved enough money as a tanner to build a tannery of his own in Georgetown, Ohio, about 13 miles north of Ripley. Grant’s boyhood home and the school he attended in Georgetown will be highlighted in this year’s birthday celebrations. In 1839, the 17-year-old Grant got an appointment to West Point. He graduated four years later, ranked 21st in a class of 39, and began his military career. The bright young man who excelled in horsemanship eventually became supreme commander of the Union Army, conqueror of the Confederacy to end the bloodiest conflict in American history and preserve the United States, and president for two terms who worked to heal a nation following the war. Grant died on July 23, 1885, of throat cancer. About 1.5 40 K E NT U C K Y M O NT HLY APRI L 2022

million people lined Broadway in New York City to view his 7-mile-long funeral procession. He was buried on Riverside Drive in New York City in what is known as Grant’s Tomb. It is the largest memorial mausoleum in North America and is operated by the National Park Service. Q Image credits: Maysville Academy courtesy of John Klee; Grant birthplace, statue and boyhood home courtesy of Ohio History Collection.

Celebrations for Grant’s 200th Birthday “In my opinion, this man’s reputation has suffered a terrible injustice since his death,” Greg Roberts said. “Only recently have historians like [Ron] Chernow stressed his importance to this country. He needs to get his due. We should celebrate his birthday, and we are going to do that.” The U.S. Grant Homestead Association in Georgetown, Ohio, with Historic New Richmond, has put together a string of birthday celebrations for Ulysses S. Grant. The major events are in April, but they run through October.

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MAIN EVENTS IN APRIL: P April 23, Birthday Party, 11 a.m.-5 p.m., New Richmond, Ohio. This will be a village-wide celebration with five riverside restaurants, three gift shops, and community organizations offering Grant specials and activities. A bus will run every half hour from New Richmond to the Grant Birthplace in nearby Point Pleasant, where you can tour the house and take part in activities. P April 23-24, Activities at the Grant Birthplace in Point Pleasant, 10 a.m.4 p.m. Civil War reenactors will present what camp was like for Union troops. A wandering storyteller will talk about the New Richmond doctor who delivered Grant, abolition, and the Grant house. P April 23, Cake-Cutting Ceremony, 4 p.m. Grant Birthplace. Official opening of the season, hosted by Historic New Richmond. P April 27, Grant’s Bicentennial Proclamation, 2 p.m. Grant Birthplace. Presentation by dignitaries, with tours and light refreshments. P April 30, An Interview with Gen. U.S. Grant, 10 a.m. Gaslight Theatre, 110 East State Street, Georgetown, Ohio. This will feature Adm. Sean Buck, superintendent of the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland, and Grant living historian Curt Fields. P April 30, Discussion of Grant’s Strong Support for Freed People, 2 p.m., Gaslight Theatre, 110 East State Street, Georgetown, Ohio. Grant historians Charles Calhoun of Greenville, North Carolina, and Curt Fields will discuss. P April 30, Concert, Light Show and Fireworks Finale, 6-10 p.m., Courthouse Square, Georgetown, Ohio (bring your chair). The Ohio National Guard Military Band will perform.

CHECK THE WEBSITE at usgrantboyhoodhome.org/grantdays-2022 for a complete list of events. Organizers note that the schedule may change, and interested persons should view the website or email usghainfo@gmail.com.

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Frontier.edu/KyMonthly k e n t u c k y m o n t h l y. c o m 41

BY JACKIE HOLLENKAMP BENTLEY

’

Telling Kentucky s

story Kentucky Humanities celebrates 50 years with special events from Pikeville to Paducah

“In Kentucky, stories are the lanterns of humanity, drawing us together and guiding us across time and place.” (From “Celebrating 50 Years of Telling Kentucky’s Story,” a film on the Kentucky Humanities website in honor of this milestone year)

he year was 1972. Under the auspices of the National Endowment for the Humanities program, a little office on the campus of the University of Kentucky became the first home for Kentucky Humanities. Complete with state-of-the-art equipment that included a typewriter, telephone and mimeograph machine, the state organization launched its mission to help tell the Commonwealth’s “stories” across cultural, intellectual, artistic and historical perspectives. Initially, Kentucky Humanities distributed solely grant money to local organizations and communities. But over the next five decades, the technology evolved, its headquarters moved, and its role expanded to offer more than just grant dollars. Bill Goodman, Kentucky Humanities executive director, said the mission hasn’t changed. “The goals at that time were, frankly, pretty much the same as we practice today—to celebrate the humanities in all of its many forms,” he said. From speakers bureaus, to reading programs, to smallgroup discussions, to traveling museum exhibits, Kentucky Humanities has invested more than $16 million in public programs in all of the Commonwealth’s 120 counties.

“By the arrival of the 21st century, Kentucky Humanities had found so many diverse and exciting ways to bring Kentuckians together: The printed page. The classroom. The public stage. The film screen. The intimate discussion group. And grand events.”

Need an expert on race and diversity to address your group? Maybe a dramatist portraying Henry Clay to speak

42 K E NT U C K Y M O NT HLY APRI L 2022

to your classroom? Through the Kentucky Humanities’ Speakers Bureau and Kentucky Chautauqua, nearly 200 speakers and performers can bring the state’s past, present and future to life. Do you want to create lifelong readers in your classroom or community? Prime Time Family Reading Time brings children and their families together not only to improve literacy, but also to “reinforce the role of family as a major social and economic unit.” Want your high school students to learn more about their responsibilities as a citizen? “Vote Worthy” is a series of podcasts designed to form “an appreciation of America’s democratic process.” “So, we’re doing a lot of different things, going in a lot of different directions, but that’s how we serve the state,” said Kathleen Pool, Kentucky Humanities’ associate director. “The humanities is the arts. It’s literature. It’s philosophy. It’s anthropology. It’s religious studies. It’s everything.” This independent nonprofit Kentucky Humanities Executive crosses all political ideologies Director Bill Goodman by bringing in scholars, writers, artists and more to participate in programs aimed at sparking discussion about what’s important to Kentuckians. “That’s a strong suit of ours—where we bring people together,” Goodman said. “People can sit down and have a discussion about an issue that they don’t all agree on but can come to, not necessarily a conclusion, but to shed some

light where light needs to be, and where some exposure needs to be given to a certain issue.” “But while technology has changed, what hasn’t changed is Kentucky Humanities’ mission to create pathways of inspiration and knowledge, to give voice to people of all ages across the Commonwealth, to follow their own lanterns of inspiration, knowledge, curiosity, imagination and public involvement.”

To celebrate its golden anniversary, activities and events throughout Kentucky are planned, with a major regional event in each of the Commonwealth’s six congressional districts. “We’re bringing the humanities to people where they are,” Pool said. Journalist David Brooks kicked off the first regional event on Feb. 8 with a virtual discussion, “Democracy and the Informed Citizen,” at the University of Pikeville (watch the discussion at youtube.com/ watch?v=wWdkc6wfczc&t=12s). The New York Times columnist and television news commentator discussed the role of humanities and journalism in today’s political climate. The remaining five events will be held at venues across the state and feature authors, musicians, scholars, chefs and astronauts. • • •

In addition to the regional events, Kentucky Humanities produces “50 Faces of the Humanities” each week featuring a Kentuckian who, in a brief video, shares his or her story on the importance of the humanities. The videos can be found on the organization’s website, kyhumanities.org, and all of its social media channels. The website also features an eight-minute video, “Celebrating 50 Years of Telling Kentucky’s Story,” and a link to “Instagram Takeover,” where college students share “humanities happenings” at their college or university. “We thank Kentuckians, themselves, whose resources, time, ideas and knowledge enabled Kentucky Humanities to dream big, to spark thought and imagination, to remind us of what it means to be a Kentuckian, a citizen and a human being.” Q

KENTUCKY HUMANITIES 50TH ANNIVERSARY aaaSCHEDULE OF REGIONAL EVENTS All the events are free of charge, but registration is required. Go to kyhumanities.org to register.

aHarmonizing Stories Features Linkin’ Bridge and Aminata Cairo July 15, 6:30 p.m. Downtown Branch Louisville Free Public Library Louisville’s own Linkin’ Bridge teams up with humanities scholar and storyteller Aminata Cairo to discuss stories through song and the lessons we learn from each other’s stories in a world often fraught with division.

aRecipes from the River

aLaureates Out Loud Features Joy Harjo and Crystal Wilkinson April 23, 7 p.m. Northern Kentucky University, Highland Heights United States Poet Laureate Joy Harjo and Kentucky Poet Laureate Crystal Wilkinson come together to discuss social justice, inclusion and storytelling through poetry.

aNew Grass in the Bluegrass Features Sam Bush and Michael Johnathon June 7, 7 p.m. Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame & Museum, Owensboro Bowling Green native Sam Bush, known as the “Father of New Grass,” joins WoodSongs Old-Time Radio Hour host Michael Johnathon to discuss storytelling through song and the impact of music on a particular region, the Commonwealth, and the country at large.

Features Chefs Regina Charboneau, Sara Bradley, Phillip Ashley Rix and John Varanese Sept. 17, 10 a.m. Paducah Convention & Expo Center Four esteemed chefs will demonstrate their favorite “river recipes” and relate the stories behind the food and how cuisine can be a unifying and defining aspect of any culture. Attendees will get to sample food and purchase culinary-related items from each chef.

aMission: Humanities Features Dr. Story Musgrave and Kris Kimel Oct. 13, 6:30 p.m. University of Kentucky, Lexington NASA astronaut Dr. Story Musgrave and Space Tango co-founder Kris Kimel come together to discuss Musgrave’s illustrious career and life experiences as well as the trajectory of the space program across the years, where it is now, and where it’s heading, especially considering Space Tango’s Humanity in Deep Space initiatives.

k e n t u c k y m o n t h l y. c o m 43

A Perfectly

Personal Project

Crystal Wilkinson mined her childhood memories to form a memoir of poetry that has struck a chord with readers across the country

B Y K I M KO B E R S M I T H

t is hard to believe that a couple of years ago, writer Crystal Wilkinson didn’t consider herself a poet. Her lyrical prose fiction was what defined her, not her few published poems. That’s changed. In the last year, she was named Kentucky Poet Laureate and published her first poetry book, Perfect Black, an intimate memoir of growing up in Casey County. It has spoken truth to a wide audience, was recommended by The New York Times, and most recently was honored nationally with the 53rd NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Literary Work – Poetry. “I thought [the book] would be read in Kentucky and perhaps regionally by Appalachian educators but had no idea it would win such a large national award,” Wilkinson said. “I am really honored to be recognized by the NAACP, an organization that plays such a big part for justice and equality in this country.” • • •

Perfect Black is a culmination of years of writing and a labor born of love. Poet and friend Rebecca Gayle Howell asked to see some of Wilkinson’s poems, then encouraged 44 K E NT U C K Y M O NT HLY APRI L 2022

her to consider publishing a collection of her works. Intrigued, Wilkinson gathered some old and new writings and laid them out on the floor. “It was a fascinating process,” Wilkinson said. “I looked at connective tissue and narrative trajectory and could suddenly see it come together.” The book has illustrations created by her longtime partner, Ronald W. Davis. Wilkinson originally imagined accompanying the poems with old photographs, since many refer to her family and upbringing. Then, she remembered a collage Davis had created around her childhood home. That led to a quarantine collaboration, the chance to work together on an artistic project. Wilkinson considers the illustrations an important element. “The art creates its own conversation throughout the book, offering call and response to each other and to the poems,” she said. • • •

Perfect Black is an intimately personal book. Wilkinson’s poetry is autobiographical, with specific and vivid, sometimes haunting portraits of her upbringing as a rural

Uniting Kentuckians everywhere. Kentucky Monthly Magazine is your guide to the Commonwealth, and the exceptional offerings that make the Bluegrass State such a wonderful place to visit or call home.

• GARDENING • EDUCATION • OUTDOORS • • FOOD + RECIPIES • TRAVEL + GETAWAYS • • KENTUCKY LIFE + EVENTS • KENTUCKY PEOPLE • KENTUCKY DAYTRIPS FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY KENTUCKY

AUGUST 2019 J U N E / J U LY 2 0 1 9

M O N T H LY AUGUST 2019

Giants at Bernheim Forest

th e Fo re

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Chrysalis PROJECT

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On April 30, Crystal Wilkinson will join fellow Kentucky writers Teri Carter, Chris Helvey, Richard Taylor and Chanda Veno among others at A Conference of Writers. Presented by the Bluegrass Writers Coalition, this day of discussion panels, networking and workshops will take place at the Frankfort Country Club. For more information, visit bluegrasswriterscoalition.com.

Monthly

Meet the Author

Kentucky

# K Y M O N T H LY

Gia n

Black girl. Even though she hasn’t lived on her family homeplace for 40 years, those childhood experiences surface again and again in her writing. “Those were formative years,” she said. “It is a way for me to pay homage to my ancestry.” Wilkinson felt some fear in sharing these poems with the world because of the vulnerability of her truth. But that was quickly alleviated with the warm reader responses. They frequently say her stories conjure their own memories of childhood, faith and family. But Wilkinson is especially gratified to have a deeper impact on young people. While on a podcast with young women in Mississippi, they thanked her for the book, saying they had never before seen their experiences of rural Black girlhood lifted up in literature. “Perfect Black is a line in one of the poems but has become a thematic thread,” she said. “Growing up, I never thought the word ‘perfect’ applied to me. I hope other young people in rural areas, especially girls of color, read it and become prouder of who they are. I hope it has a ripple effect, reaching youth of other races, body types, and parts of the world.” Wilkinson is quintessentially a Kentucky writer. Her family moved to the Commonwealth when she was six weeks of age, and she has made a deliberate choice to stay here as an adult. The writing community is part of the reason why. “There is a plethora of talent here. I think there are more writers per capita in Kentucky than just about anywhere else,” she said. “The outpouring of love from fellow Kentucky writers has been phenomenal.” Q

ISSUE

First Generation Women Achievers Touring Your Home State Frontier Nursing University Ignite Institute Facts About Kentucky Colleges

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TOGETHER

Fighting Cancer in Eastern Kentucky Leonard Lawson Cancer Center

Learn about our advanced capabilities. Visit pikevillehospital.org or call (606) 430-2212.

Best of the Best The 65 Roses Gala will honor a select group of Louisville’s best and brightest young professionals. These leaders are not only making a positive local impact, but they’re also committed to supporting the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation’s mission: Finding a cure for all people with cystic fibrosis.

Join us

Friday, June 10, 6:30 pm Churchill Downs Cocktail Party · Dinner & Full Bar Live & Silent Auctions · Music

For more information

Please contact Whitney Hobbs, 502-242-7974 or whobbs@cff.org

This QR Code will take you to (65 Roses Gala) to register for the event or to make a donation. You may also type (finest.cff.org/65rosesgala) into your browser to visit the site directly, if you prefer.

46 K E NT U C K Y M O NT HLY APRI L 2022

A section for Kentuckians everywhere … inside Kentucky Monthly.

The 1901 Kentucky Derby was the 27th running of the Kentucky Derby. The race took place on April 29, 1901.

K ENTUCKY XPLORER E All About Kentucky

Volume 37, Number 3 – April 2022

Anita Brawner Harrod in the Buttimer Hill neighborhood of Frankfort around 1940. Photo courtesy of Dennis and David Harrod.

Your Letters -- page 48 Destination Louisville: Ladies of the Evening as Cargo -- page 52 Kentucky’s Cradle of Catholicism -- page 56

“I Remember” By Our Readers

and More!

Featuring Things Old & New About Kentucky

THE KENTUCKY EXPLORER

Kentucky Explorer a magazine published for Kentuckians everywhere Charles Hayes Jr. • Founder Stephen M. Vest • Publisher Deborah Kohl Kremer • Editor Rebecca Redding • Typographist One-Year Subscription to Kentucky Monthly: $20

FOUNDED 1986, ISSUE 335, VOLUME 37, NO. 3

Letters to Kentucky Explorer Letters may be edited for clarification and brevity.

Kentucky History Although April doesn’t always deliver the spring weather we dream of, we’re sure to get a few pretty days this month, along with a few frosts. It’s just Mother Nature’s way of letting us know she calls the shots. One sure sign of spring is that Keeneland Race Course in Lexington opens for live racing. I’m a firm believer that any day at Keeneland—even if the weather (or your luck) is bad—is better than a day at the office. This month’s issue includes an article on the back-breaking work a family went through to gather their own coal. Then you can read about how the Peak family and others established the Catholic church in Nelson County. We have an interesting Civil War story I had never heard. Apparently the “oldest profession” had the famed generals fighting a battle they weren’t expecting. As always, I would love to share your memories, photos and stories about Kentucky history with our readers. You can reach me at deb@kentuckymonthly.com or mail items to Kentucky Monthly, Attn: Deb Kremer, P.O. Box 559, Frankfort, KY 40602-0559. — DEBORAH KOHL KREMER

Very interesting history lesson on Boone and Harrod. (November 2021 issue, page 54). I am working on my family genealogy and so far discovered many grandfathers in early Kentucky history. One was Michael Riley, a documented guard at Fort Hartford, Ohio County, in 1790. Marsha Logsdon, Livermore, marsha_logsdon@bellsouth.net

In Search of a Photo I was told that a photo of the Rio Theater may have appeared in a back issue of Kentucky Explorer. The Rio Theater was located on Main Street in Cloverport. I remember it from the 1960s. It burned down sometime in the 1980s. Do any readers have a photo they would be willing to share/sell? If so, please contact me.

Mike Stinnett, Bowling Green, 270.202.3629 mikestinnett@hotmail.com

Back Issue Quest For research I am doing on slave rebellions, I am looking for a copy of “The Great Slave Escape of 1848 Ended in Bracken County” by John E. Leming Jr., which was published in Kentucky Explorer, June 2000, pages 25-29. Might anyone have a copy of that issue? Any additional information on that rebellion/escape would be welcome! Mikael Levin, Bellport, New York mail@mikaellevin.com

Does This Ring a Bell?

The Keeneland spring meet is April 8-29.

In memory of Donna Jean Hayes, 1948-2019 Kentucky Explorer appears inside each issue of Kentucky Monthly magazine. Subscriptions can be purchased online at shopkentuckymonthly.com or by calling 1.888.329.0053.

My grandfather published an article in Kentucky Explorer years ago (I am unsure of the year), and I was wondering if anyone could help me locate this article. His name was Garland Mullins. He was from Salyersville and was born in Waldo, Kentucky. My aunt says she remembers the story being about my grandpa and his dog. He passed away in November, and our family cannot find the issue of Kentucky Explorer that his article was in. If anyone remembers this, please contact me. Thanks! Lauren Kozlowski lnaughton18@hotmail.com 4552 East 200 South, La Porte, IN 46350

The song that opens the Academy Awards presentation, the Oscars, has the line “Hooray for Hollywood! …

April 2022 49

Proof That Lindbergh Was Not at Sand Cave

following letter is that Lindbergh tells Marshall where he was at the time of the Collins entrapment.

I wrote an article on aviator Charles A. Lindbergh’s 1921 visit to Kentucky and Mammoth Cave that appeared in the “I believe, a little over two years ago, the papers were full of the March 2021 issue (page 54). In in, I rehashed the myth that Sand Cave Tragedy, as they are today of my flight across the Great Lindbergh also was present and played a part in the 1925 Ocean to Paris, and at that time, I was only an aeroplane mechanic (in Floyd Collins/Sand Cave tragedy. A link to this article can San Antonio, Texas), but I took the most be found here: kentuckymonthly. profound interest in the attempt to rescue the com/magazine/kentucky-explorer/ late Floyd Collins from the Sand Cave Trap, aviator-charles-a-lindbergh’s-visit-toand it was then in numerous accounts that I kentucky. saw your name mentioned as the most Other than secondhand accounts foremost worker and hero. Allow me the same and fictitious writings, I could not privilege, which you kindly extended me, to find any solid information indicating congratulate you on your heroic attempt of that Lindbergh was at the Sand Cave two years ago … Very Truly Yours, Col. Chas event. Even Lindbergh himself did Lindbergh.” not acknowledge being at Sand Cave — The Advocate Messenger, in any of his books. He was June 17, 1927, Danville supposedly at the event flying photographers’ photos to This newspaper article various newspapers. provides proof that Lindbergh I recently found a 1927 was not at Sand Cave. Even newspaper article from though Lindbergh never made Danville about Lindbergh an appearance during the 1925 sending Albert B. Marshall of Collins entrapment, the Danville, the “Hero of Sand possibility of a famous man Cave,” a letter congratulating like Lindbergh playing a small him on his bravery in the part in this popular event Collins tragedy. Marshall added excitement to the previously had reached out to story. Fact or fiction, a good Lindbergh with a letter story always outweighs the congratulating him shortly truth! after his transatlantic flight Top, Charles A. Lindbergh, photo from the Library of Bob Thompson, from New York to Paris. Congress; above, Albert Marshall’s calling card. Photo Mason, Ohio What is interesting about the from the John Benton Collection.

More Than Just a Porch Swing By Nina W. Jones, Cadiz I inherited our mother’s porch swing, and I want my children to keep it after I’m gone. They have good memories associated with their grandmother and her swing. The swing was purchased in the early 1930s, and it is amazing the number of memories related to it. I remember playing paper dolls on the porch in the ’30s while waiting for my three sisters to come home from school. Sometimes, I would swing sideways, making the swing my imaginary boat. With no air conditioning, the houses had screen doors, and sometimes while sitting in the swing, I could smell the odors from neighborhood houses and know what the neighbors were having for supper. Mother always sat in the swing mid-morning waiting for the mailman, and then, after supper, we sat there to watch anything that might occur in the neighborhood. She would swing her children, grandchildren and greatgrandchildren. After she died, I was the only one with a porch, so I got the swing and could then swing my own

While not Nina’s swing, this swing is representative of a familiar sight on many Kentucky porches.

children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. It has had numerous coats of paint but is still sturdy. I have recently moved from Henderson to Cadiz and gave the swing to my son, who now sits in the swing with his own granddaughter. It is not just a porch swing; it is a memory. Memories have no expiration date.

… That phony, super Coney, Hollywood. They come from Chilicothes and Padukahs …”

4 THE 50 THEKENTUCKY KENTUCKYEXPLORER EXPLORER Send memories to Deborah Kohl Kremer at deb@kentuckymonthly.com or mail to Kentucky Monthly, Attn: Deb Kremer, P.O. Box 559, Frankfort, KY 40602.

“I Remember” Send your memory in today!

By Our Readers

You Don’t Have to Be a Knight to Wear a Breastplate By David R. Caudill Daytona Beach, Florida My family returned to Kentucky in 1953 and settled at the head of Rock House Fork of Big Willard Creek in Perry County. It was my father’s old homeplace. After clearing the weeds from a house long vacant, cleaning the house itself, cleaning the well, and so forth, we settled in. There were myriad things to do, including painting, fixing up the old barn, putting in a garden as it was just midJune, and fencing, so that we could buy a cow. Another necessity was to get coal for the coming winter. By 1953, most people got their coal from one of the many area mines. They simply hired somebody to get bone coal, which is coal with slate or stone still attached. And it is separated and pitched in a large pile while the coal is on the conveyor belt on its way to the tipple. Mine owners were happy to get rid of it because it was a nuisance. They gave it away or sold it for almost nothing. It was certainly good enough to use in a fireplace or stove. One only had to knock the large pieces of slate off it to have usable coal. My father decided we should shoot out our own coal. I am not a coal miner and never wanted to be one because I could see it was hard and dangerous work. I heard too many stories of explosions, cave-ins and accidents. I saw too many people with missing fingers or other body parts, others hobbling around on canes, and many whose lungs were destroyed so badly from inhaling rock dust or coal dust that they could barely function. I am no expert on coal mining, but many of your readers are. I am drawing on memories 50 years old, but this is how I remember it. Dad went to Hazard to get supplies to mine our coal. Our property had a coal bank, like so many others nearby, and Dad intended to shoot out our coal rather than buy it. (There were five children in our family at the time—soon to be seven—and we were living on an Army pension!) Things were different in those days. If you needed powder to shoot coal, you went to a hardware store and bought it. I’m almost sure that Dad didn’t even have to sign for it. He bought both permissible powder and electric blasting caps. Permissible powder is great stuff! Unlike dynamite, which is unstable, permissible powder takes an igniter such as a blasting cap to set it off. We returned home with the blasting caps in the trunk and the powder in the back seat.

The day to shoot out coal arrived and Uncle Josh, a coal miner, came to help us. It had been more than 20 years since Dad had worked the mines, and I guess Uncle Josh came for safety’s sake. Much coal in that area sits high on the hills and close to the surface. Ours was like that; 50 feet of hillside had to be cut back to reach it. This had already been done, and some coal had been taken by Uncle Josh, but primarily, it was a new mine. Its entrance was approximately 10 feet wide and extended back into the mountain another 30 feet, where it widened into a room about 20 feet wide. All we had to do was clean up the entrance to the mouth or opening of the mine, where dirt had fallen off the sides of the cut. Our coal was 34 inches in height, so it was necessary to work on our knees. We replaced some of the mining timbers or props (substantial pieces of wood approximately the height of the coal, jammed between the floor and roof of the mine to prevent rock falls). Frankly, I wasn’t too happy crawling around on my hands and knees in the side of a mountain, but at 14, I did what I was told. I was even less keen when my dad told me to get the auger and showed me where to drill. In commercial mines of the day, there were electric drills to drill holes for the powder, but I had a hand-operated auger. I can think of no other device guaranteed to kill your back than that piece of equipment. It consisted of a curved piece of metal about 4 inches wide by 16 inches long called a breastplate. In the center was a circular attachment on which the base of the 5-foot-long augur fit. The operator placed the plate on his chest, inserted the auger, leaned his body into it, and turned it using two handles. The progress was slow, and long before the hole was finished, my back was killing me. The hole was deep enough into the coal to place the shot. We used one stick, and I often wondered if Dad got

Singer and songwriter Loretta Lynn was born in Butcher Hollow on April 14, 1932.

April 2022 51

tired of waiting for me to drill the hole deep enough for two sticks. Dad inserted the blasting cap into one end of the stick of powder and tied a half hitch with the wires of the cap, so that the cap wouldn’t dislodge when the shot was placed in the hole and gently used a tamping bar to slide it into its depth. Explosives are predictable. The force always follows the path of least resistance. In other words, just to set off the powder would cause most of the force to come back out of the hole and not break the coal loose. To prevent this, the hole was plugged with dummies—sheets of heavy paper rolled into the shape of a stick of powder. One end is crimped, and dirt is added before crimping the opposite end. These are placed in the hole and tamped tightly with a bar. Dad connected the blasting cap wires to a long length of regular house electrical wire. This allowed us to get a safe distance from the blast before setting off the powder. We stripped the wires at both ends, with the end being used to apply electricity wired together to ensure no short entered the line and set off the powder. We connected the

blasting cap wires to the wire and were ready to shoot out some coal. Detonating the charge was as simple as unraveling the wires, placing two class D batteries together, and touching a wire to each end. “KABOOM!” went the charge. After the smoke cleared, we cautiously went back in, checking the props or timbers, replacing any blown down, and putting up new ones if necessary. We could find coal strewn about and even more hanging loosely from the face of the wall. This had to be broken loose with a pick or the sharp end of the tamping bar. All that remained was another backbreaking job: getting the coal out. Luckily, Dad and Uncle Josh pitched it as close to the entrance as possible, and we could use a wheelbarrow to collect it. In the winter, I could hook up my uncle’s mule, Barney, to take it by sled to the house. Either our finances got better or my dad didn’t enjoy the work any more than I did. After that first winter, Dad hired a local trucker to haul bone from nearby mines, like everyone else. And that was OK by me. It was also all right with my aching back!

Old Dead Horse Creek in Taylor Mill

from me, up the bank and out of sight. That cat must’ve passed me on the well-worn game trail that was just a few yards away. The cat was larger than any house cat and probably weighed at least 40-45 pounds. I’ve always been an outdoorsman who liked fishing and hunting but turned to hiking in my middle age. So, I definitely know the difference, and I was taken by the size of the cat that had stalked me along the trail so quietly that I hadn’t heard the slightest sound until he crossed the creek and turned over that rock. I remember Dad telling me that Old Dead Horse Creek got its name during the Civil War. Supposedly, some Confederate soldiers had come north to collect or steal horses for the war effort. After getting a small herd of horses, they realized they had too many to escape unseen, so they kept the best ones and took the hides from the rest. I heard that story a couple of times from other older men, so I assume that is how the creek got its name. I remember on my first trips there, I saw about 50 bleached large animal bones in the creek. What’s strange is that the Civil War was over in 1865, and I first visited almost 95 years later. I would think those large bones would have disappeared in that time and in outdoor conditions. Time moves along, and I’m 73 now. Old Dead Horse Creek, or what’s left of it, is still there after the sewer department used the natural topography to install giant sewer pipes, and the highway department enlarged Taylor Mill Road to four lanes, putting huge bridge piers in the center of the creek. My memory of how beautiful it was back when I was young is still there. Back then, I could run fast, jumping from rock to rock while loading the clip of my bolt-action model 69 Winchester 22 rifle and pretending that I was being chased.

By Randy Ogden, Taylor Mill Back in the 1950s, my dad introduced me to an Old Blue Line Stream that he had used as a kid. The stream is a tributary of Banklick Creek, which runs into the Licking River and empties into the Ohio River. The stream starts on old Taylor Mill Road in Kenton County. My dad said he never heard the stream called anything other than Old Dead Horse Creek. During his youth, he hunted squirrels and rabbits, gathered black walnuts, and hiked nearby. I once found his name carved into a beechnut tree dated 1934. I was 20 when I found it, and he would’ve been 19 when he carved it. I heard stories of Dad gathering black walnuts and putting them into burlap bags. He then loaded the bags onto his wagon and sat on top of the bags while he coasted down Taylor Mill Road to his parents’ house at 45th and Huntington Avenue. I guess that was in the late 1920s. There were two natural springs that I drank from near an old Boy Scout camp. The creek had two nice waterfalls and was absolutely beautiful in the fall with the autumn leaves. We used to build a rock fire ring and cook hamburgers and hotdogs. There were so many good memories and pictures of Mom and Dad in their dating years and my children and wife hiking Old Dead Horse Creek. I was told by an older man who was a stranger that Dead Horse Creek was a dangerous place because there were panthers down there. I was about 10 at the time, but that did not deter me. I never saw anything resembling a panther until I was about 50 years old. Walking alone one day with my .22 single-shot rifle, I heard a rock turn about 150 feet away. Looking up, I saw a black cat running away

Jockey Isaac Murphy, who won 628 races—including three Kentucky Derbys—was born in Clark County, April 16, 1861 .

6 THE 52 THEKENTUCKY KENTUCKYEXPLORER EXPLORER

Destination Louisville:

Ladies of the Evening as Cargo By Dr. Marshall Myers, Richmond istorian and medical doctor Thomas P. Lowry notes that studies of the Civil War fall into certain categories. First, and not necessarily in ranked order, are the memories of famous generals and officers. The memoirs of Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee and Union Gen. Ulysses S. Grant fall into that category. Next are regimental histories. Books and articles on Lee’s Army of Virginia and studies of the Army of the Potomac are good illustrations of this type of book. Another kind of study is a piece that questions the judgment of certain leaders of the respective armies. Should the Confederacy have called for Pickett’s Charge at the Battle of Gettysburg? Should Confederate Gen. Braxton Bragg have left Perryville under the cover of darkness? A critique of those decisions would illustrate that type of work. Other studies include books and articles on technical subjects. Scholarship on the role of the railroad in the war exemplifies these studies. Publications that examine the influence of the terrain are further illustrations of this same type of work. General histories of the war form another category: James McPherson’s book The Battle Cry of Freedom and Shelby Foote’s The Civil War attempt to cover the entire conflict. The letters of a participant in a particular battle or campaign are examples of another kind of work. Numerous publications that include the impressions of individual soldiers on battles, for example, illustrate these types of studies. The diaries of various soldiers who recorded their exploits in a particular battle or campaign also are valuable studies. Once in a while, works such as Bell I. Wiley’s study of the lives of everyday soldiers, Billy Yank and Johnny Reb— Union and Confederate—show readers how the war

played out in the everyday life of individual soldiers. For example, James McPherson’s For Cause and Comrades: Why Men Fought in the Civil War tries to discern just what soldiers from both armies were fighting for. Thomas P. Lowry’s books illustrate a wide variety of scholarship, with a bit of unusual—but still valuable— information. His focus on prostitution and venereal disease among soldiers on both sides may seem insignificant, but with no firm figures on how many soldiers were affected, we don’t know just what influence sex and sexually transmitted diseases had on the armies of the North and South. In fact, the figures of affected militants come secondarily from the diaries and letters of those who had contracted venereal disease. Neither army was proud to share such figures. The Union Army in both Nashville and Memphis saw the problem as so acute that it imposed mandatory health checks on known prostitutes who were not cleared to “ply their trade” until they were given a clean bill of health by the Army doctors. Aside from Nevada today, this was the only time that government on any level—local, state or national—tried to regulate the profession of literally hundreds of women. Surely the military commanders thought that prostitution and venereal diseases were negatively affecting their troops, or they would not have taken such action. It was to them a real problem that had to be dealt with. In an official statement on July 8, 1863, Gen. J.D. Morgan wrote, “The prevalence of venereal disease at this post has elicited the notice of the General Commanding Department who has ordered a peremptory remedy.” That resulted in a stiff notice that ordered “Lt. Col. [George] Spalding Provost Marshal [is to be] hereby directed without loss of time to seize and transport to Louisville all prostitutes found in the City [Nashville] or [k]nown to be here.” The idea was that if the prostitutes

Prostitute License of Anna Johnson dated Nov. 24, 1863. Photo courtesy of the National Archives and Records Administration.

Weekly Certificate of Health for prostitute Bettie Duncan dated Dec. 30, 1863. Photo courtesy of the National Archives and Records Administration.

Dr. Thomas Walker recorded that he discovered and used coal in what is now southeast Kentucky …

April 2022 53

weren’t in Nashville, the sexually transmitted diseases would be less of a problem for the general’s fighting men. Accordingly, the transportation of the prostitutes meant that Spalding then had to find a steamboat to carry out the order. He settled on the brand new Idahoe, captained by John M. Newcomb. He then ordered Capt. Newcomb to “proceed to Louisville with the one hundred eleven [111] passengers put on Board your steamer today, allowing none to leave the Boat before reaching Louisville.” The assumption, a rather naïve one, was that Louisville would take the prostitutes and deal with them judiciously. But that would prove not to be the case. In the end, the city of Louisville was much more discriminating than to take a hundred “ladies of the evening” and receive them graciously. In one of the most bizarre events of the Civil War involving Kentucky, the steamboat trip was much more complex than just transporting the wayward women to Louisville. First was the problem of feeding the women. When Newcomb asked the Army’s quartermaster to supply him with the necessary subsistence, he was told, “Subsist them yourself.” That meant that Newcomb had to “buy meat and vegetables at enormous prices from steamboats and in addition at many places to buy ice and medicines, [for] these women [were] diseased and more than half of them sick in bed.” But when the captain tried to acquire food and other supplies, “at each place [I] was refused by the officers in charge, and the Civil as well as the Military authorities would not allow my boat to land, and put guards along the shore to prevent me from doing so.” Before the journey, Newcomb anticipated that he himself would need guards to keep both the women and excited men along the way from boarding the boat. Gen. Morgan didn’t see it that way and told Newcomb that he wouldn’t supply guards and that Newcomb didn’t “need anybody to take charge [of the women] and [to take charge of the women] himself.” Newcomb found that merely getting supplies was much more complicated than Gen. Morgan had thought it would be: “But when the boat was at anchor, and being angered, [I] strove to drive [the women and approaching men] [by myself], [but] these bad women [in the process] destroyed and damaged [the] boat and her furniture to a great extent.” Only three months old, the boat was stocked with new

and expensive furnishings, and Newcomb had to watch as his new furnishings were being demolished by sex-crazed men and money-minded women. When he finally arrived at Louisville, the authorities did one thing: Gen. Jeremiah Boyle supplied the captain with a guard. But the authorities refused to let the boat land and told Newcomb “to proceed to Cincinnati and await further orders.” Newcomb complied with the authorities’ wishes and headed for Cincinnati. Yet when the Idahoe made it to the Queen City, again he was refused landing. In the end, Newcomb spent 13 days in the waters offshore awaiting further orders. After nearly two weeks, the captain was ordered back to Nashville. Two years later, in another extended letter to the powers in Washington, Newcomb pleaded his case, seeking reimbursement for the cost of feeding the women and demanding payment for the destruction of his boat’s new furniture. On Oct. 14, 1865, more than two years after his trip, the Treasury Department awarded Newcomb $5,316.04 for food for the women and the damages to the furniture. But the Idahoe was in need of more than monetary reimbursement, as the boat—the one-time elite means of transportation—was now dubbed “a floating warehouse for wayward women.” Patrons didn’t like the idea of being on a boat with such a reputation—even if the boat had transported just one boatload of prostitutes. The good name of the Idahoe was so sullied that the boat no longer became the choice passenger ship it was designed to be, with radiant and comfortable lounges and tasteful, expensive furniture. The steamboat would forever be associated with the transportation of these “frail sisters,” a reputation that lingered longer than the Nashville round trip.

… while leading an expedition for the Loyal Land Company in April 1750.

THE KENTUCKY EXPLORER

Noted Winchester Mayor of Yesteryear By Robert Blanton, Winchester Mayors come and go, and they have been doing so in Winchester since Feb. 8, 1882, when the mayoral form of government began. I have known mayors dating back to Edsel Jones. While I did not know Jones as mayor in the late 1960s, I had many dealings with him while he was city attorney. The most notable mayor, John Edwin Garner, is chronicled in a book by W.C. Caywood Jr. titled Kentucky Mayor, a must-read for anyone with an interest in the city’s past. Published in 1950, the book shares Garner’s thoughts, wit and humor through his eloquent speeches and philosophy of the time. In many instances, his words are even truer today. First elected in 1886, Garner, who then served five subsequent terms, quickly became known as the Kentucky Mayor, and visitors came from all parts just to meet him. In his lifetime, Garner was mayor, newspaper editor, grocery and hardware dealer, insurance and realty agent, lumber manufacturer, contractor, and trader in oil and wool. He also found time to be a speaker at banquets and statewide conventions. He participated in major political campaigns. One also could find Garner loafing at the firehouse or at the Court View Hotel. His varied knowledge allowed him to speak on any subject. Garner was a friend of governors, senators and congressmen, even though he often voted against them. He was comfortable talking at any level to anyone about anything. Many of his “Garnerisms” were still quoted decades later. After Garner’s short career in the newspaper business, he regularly filled the role of a guest editor but often wrote letters to the editor. Many of those were on trivial matters,

yet were an incentive for improvement. Not only did he use his pen to describe Winchester’s limitations, Garner also used his speaker’s platform to proclaim Winchester as a leader in many areas of commerce, trade and enterprise—so much so that in 1907 at the International Jamestown Exposition in Jamestown, Virginia, on John Edwin Garner Winchester Day, Garner shared the podium with President Theodore Roosevelt. Garner’s comments were reported on the front page of The Cincinnati Enquirer and in the Louisville, Baltimore and Washington papers. So, what is a Garnerism? Here are a few: • “Statesmen with horse sense would encourage a few more Man-O-Wars on the turf and fewer on the seas.” • “A city of six-story buildings and one-story men would neither be a great nor a good city.” • “We won the baseball game four to three. The four was in our favor, and the umpire was in their favor.” • “They say money talks; the only thing I have ever heard it say is good-bye.” Perhaps he left his best for the last as he gasped his final breath, “What a pity I wasted so much breath all those years when I need it so badly now.” We have celebrations to commemorate our favorite sons, those who were honored in life and in death. January 11 marked the 81st anniversary of Garner’s passing. Perhaps it is time we acknowledge his contributions to Winchester.

WWII Radio Donated to E. Bruce Heilman Collection E. Bruce Heilman (1926-2019) was at home, listening to his family’s 1930s radio when the United States Naval Base at Pearl Harbor was attacked by the Japanese on Dec. 7, 1941. This inspired him to enlist in the U.S. Marine Corps and serve during World War II. He served in the Pacific Theatre, was stationed at Okinawa, and landed at

Hiroshima shortly after the atomic bomb was dropped. After the war, Heilman followed a career in higher education, serving as president of several colleges and universities. He always acknowledged his humble beginnings in Oldham County, where his father, Earl Heilman, was a sharecropper on a farm in Ballardsville. Far left, B.J. and Vicki Senior, friends of the Heilman family, presented the family radio to the Oldham County History Center as a part of the Heilman Collection and World War II Exhibit; left, in 2021, the Oldham County History Center dedicated The Road Warrior Statue on their grounds. It honors Heilman by depicting him on his HarleyDavidson motorcycle. He rode the motorcycle the last 22 years of his life across America, bringing attention to WWII soldiers and Gold Star Families.

Red River Gorge is home to more than 80 natural arches. 54 K E NT U C K Y M O NT HLY NOV EMBER 2 0 2 0

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Henry Clay Oaks Plentiful in the Tar Heel State

From hmdb.org

North Carolina has a historical marker with ties to the Bluegrass State. In 1844, Kentuckian and then-Whig presidential candidate Henry Clay penned a famous letter while sitting under a tree on the spot where the marker was placed. It reads: Henry Clay, on a visit to this city, wrote the famous Raleigh Letter, April 17, 1844, opposing the annexation of Texas. Many authorities believe that this statement cost him the presidential election of 1844. According to tradition Clay wrote the letter while sitting under this oak tree, in the yard of Col. William Polk, at whose home he was a guest. The marker was erected in 1938 by the Daughters of the American

Revolution, Colonel Polk Chapter, and is located on the side of the Andrews-Duncan House at 407 North Blount Street in Raleigh. The famed Henry Clay Oak was more than 100 feet tall, with a 100foot spread and a trunk that measured 6½ feet in diameter. It was suspected to be more than 200 years old when it was taken down in October 1991 because of weather damage and disease. Following its removal, North Carolina germinated seedlings from the tree and provided one seedling to each of the 100 schools in Wake County with instructions to plant the seedling on school grounds.

The Flemingsburg & Northern Railroad

Photos from the collection of David Morse

By David Morse The railroad known as the Flemingsburg & Northern Railroad opened on Jan. 1, 1920. The car above was used by the F&N during the last days of passenger service on the railroad. Running a steam locomotive and passenger cars had gotten expensive, and the F&N needed a cheaper way of providing passenger service. This car was purchased in 1919 from the Richmond & Appomattox Railroad. It was originally an electric-powered car, taking power from an overhead wire. The F&N put a gasoline-powered generator on it to power the electric traction motors that operated the wheels. It could haul about 20 passengers and had a compartment for baggage, mail and package freight. The large tank on the front was a water tank for the gasoline motor’s radiator. During its existence, the line operated under seven different names. It was incorporated in 1876 as a narrowgauge (36-inch) railroad. It ran 17 miles from Flemingsburg

Junction on the Louisville & Nashville’s Paris-Maysville line (now Trans-Kentucky Transportation Inc.) to Hillsboro. By 1878, the line ran Flemingsburg JunctionFlemingsburg-Hillsboro. On May 10, 1907, a wooden trestle at Weaver’s Ford, between Flemingsburg and Hillsboro, collapsed while a passenger train was crossing it. There were several injuries, and three passengers were killed. This resulted in the Flemingsburg-Hillsboro line being abandoned. In December 1909, the remaining 6 miles of track were converted to Standard Gauge (4 feet, 8.5 inches). The railroad adopted its last name, Flemingsburg & Northern, around 11 years later. Paved roads, automobiles, buses and trucks led to mounting losses, and the F&N filed for abandonment. On Dec. 5, 1955, the F&N made its last run, taking 13 freight cars from Flemingsburg to Flemingsburg Junction to be turned over to the L&N. Scrapping of the road started on Oct. 11, 1956.

Prior to 1750, Kentucky’s population was made up almost exclusively of Cherokee, Chickasaw and Shawnee tribes.

THE KENTUCKY EXPLORER

Kentucky’s Cradle of Catholicism By Bob Peak Cadiz mtman1@yahoo.com

n April 2017, I decided to do some online genealogical research to learn more about the paternal side of my family. Somewhat providentially, I had the good fortune to discover an online document that has revealed a great deal of information about my family’s Kentucky roots. I’m referring to “The Peakes of Nelson County, Kentucky,” which was researched and written by retired University of Kentucky professor Dr. Robert Zwicker and his cousin, John Stewart. Regrettably, John had passed away less than a year before my discovery, so I never had an opportunity to thank him for his years of dedication and commitment to this well-researched, long-term genealogical project. However, I have been able to contact Bob Zwicker, and we have been communicating for several years about our familial connections. Prior to my discovery of the ZwickerStewart document, my known Peak family roots were limited to only four previous generations, and we did not even know the exact birthplace of my great-grandfather. As a result of Bob’s extensive genealogical research, I can now trace my paternal Peak(e) ancestry back for seven generations to Edward Peake (1730-76), and if reliable documentation can eventually be uncovered in Maryland, we should be able to confirm an additional four generations, dating back to Colonial America in the 1600s. (Note: One of the previously unknown things the document uncovered was the fact that my Peak surname has experienced a variety of spellings, with the most common variation involving an extra “e”.) In an introductory section of “The Peakes of Nelson County, Kentucky,” Bob explains that the first large Catholic migration into Nelson County began in the late 1700s by the League of Catholic Families, most of whom were from St. Mary’s County, Maryland. Sixty families in this League pledged to migrate to the Pottinger’s Creek area of Nelson County. The first group of 25 families left Maryland in 1785 under the leadership of Basil Hayden. (Note: Among his many talents, Hayden was a distiller, and bourbon enthusiasts may recognize him as the elderly gentleman pictured on the label of Old Grand-Dad Bourbon. Also, the Beam Distilling Company in Clermont currently produces a line of bourbon and rye with Hayden’s name. Sports fans may recognize the Hayden name for another reason—the first All-American

basketball player at the University of Kentucky was Basil Ewing Hayden, a descendent of the pioneer. His jersey hangs proudly from the rafters of Rupp Arena. Hayden was a Kappa Sigma for more than 80 years.) A League of Catholic Families pioneer group led by James Rapier followed in 1786, settling closer to Bardstown, and in 1787, a third League group, under the leadership of Thomas Hill and Philip Miles, settled in the Pottinger’s Creek area. Other areas heavily settled by these St. Mary’s Countians included Hardin Creek (10 miles east of Pottinger’s Creek), Cartwright’s Creek, Rolling Fork and Cox’s Creek, as well as locations in Scott and Breckinridge counties. The Marylanders brought the traditional skills of their Chesapeake Bay region to Kentucky, including tobacco farming, distilling and methods of preparation for Southern Maryland stuffed ham. Many of these traditional practices may still be found in this part of Kentucky. For Marylanders, the usual route to Nelson County, Kentucky, started overland to Pittsburgh, then down the Ohio River on flatboats to Maysville, followed by another overland journey to one of the forts (then called “stations”) near the area of settlement. Alternate routes for other pioneers were: (1) down the Ohio River to the Kentucky River, inland along the Kentucky River, then over the hills into the Salt River basin; (2) down the Ohio

James “Jim” Bowie, soldier and inventor of the Bowie Knife, was born April 10, 1796 in Logan County.

April 2022 57

River to the Falls of the Ohio, then on to Bullitt’s Lick over buffalo traces; and (3) down the Ohio River to the Salt River, then upstream into Simpson Creek. The League pioneers followed the Maysville route and continued down to Goodwin’s Station—near what is now Boston, Kentucky—and from there moved into the Pottinger’s Creek area, near the present location of the Abbey of Gethsemani. A list of the patriarchs of League families was published by B. J. Webb in 1884 and has been reproduced in various publications. Today, many Kentuckians who live in the areas settled by the pioneers will recognize surnames on Webb’s list, including Mattingly, Mudd, Cissell (Cecil), Nally, Hagan, French, Edelen, Norris and Spalding. One of the names on the Webb list is Francis Peake, my fourth great-grandfather. As noted in “The Peakes of Nelson County, Kentucky,” practically all of the Peak(e) families in Kentucky, and many in other states, can trace their genealogical roots back to two brothers who were a part of the League migration, Francis Peake, and John Kenelm Peake. On another personal note, it may be mentioned that Louisa Edelen, my third greatgrandmother, was a granddaughter of one of the Edelen pioneers, and she married Benjamin Peak, one of Francis Peake’s sons. As a result of the League migration, the first Catholic church in Kentucky—a log building—was constructed at the foot of Rohan Knob (now Holy Cross, Kentucky) in 1792. Basil Hayden’s family donated the land for it. Today, Kentucky Historical Marker No. 913 marks the spot, and it states that the present church was erected in 1823 under the direction of the famous Belgian missionary, Charles Nerinckx. The marker is at the intersection of Loretto Road (Ky. Rt. 49) and Holy Cross Road (Ky. Rt. 457). Ky. Rt. 527 also is located at this crossroad. Father Robert Byrne served as pastor of Holy Cross Church for the first 20 years of its existence. Although no gravestone marks the exact spot, it is believed that Basil Hayden Sr. is buried in the cemetery that surrounds the church. During the 19th century, Catholic communities flourished in nearby Bardstown. Later, migrants from Ireland and Germany formed large Catholic parishes in Louisville and Covington. However, to this day, Holy Cross, Kentucky, is considered by many to be the cradle of Catholicism in the Commonwealth.

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Jim Bowie was killed in the Battle of the Alamo in the 1836 Texas Revolution.

past tense/present tense by Bill Ellis

April: A Month of Contrasts A

“

pril love is for the very young …” Well, more about that later. From the Latin Aprilis, meaning “to open,” the month of April has a special flair. April Fools’ Day, the first day of the month, is when one must be on guard against practical jokes and pranks. I’ve been known to pull a few pranks myself. As a teacher at Eastern Kentucky University, I went into a class one day and, to the surprise of the students, began giving out test papers. After hearing a few groans and “I didn’t know we had a test today,” I announced, “Gotcha” and “April Fools” to a relieved audience. April can be the most beautiful time of the year. Trees and flowers are blooming. First come the redbud trees. When the redbuds and the dogwoods bloom at the same time, it is a special treat. It is time to get out the lawnmower. Kentucky Monthly gardening columnist Walt Reichert always has special information for us. We now live in a condo, so my gardening is limited. I have become intrigued by a variety of spiderwort that blooms in our little plant bed until frost strikes. Its beautiful three-petaled blue flowers spring to life after every rain or sprinkle of a hose. • • •

briefly, and my wife drove home after sheltering in the church basement. Seven people died that day in Madison County. Another tornado struck Brandenburg, where more people were swept away, and then Louisville. In all, the tornados caused 71 fatalities in the Commonwealth. Conventional wisdom has it that December is not tornado season. However, all previous tornadoes in Kentucky were eclipsed by those of Dec. 11, 2021, which resulted in 77 fatalities. With winds approaching 190 miles per hour and spanning 1 mile wide, the F4 tornado swept through western Kentucky for 128 miles, destroying property in several towns—including Mayfield, Dawson Springs and Bowling Green—and killing and injuring more people than any previous outbreak of such force. In my limited knowledge of weather patterns, I understand that such storms can be quite unpredictable, depending on factors such as the strength and movement of jet streams. I have even heard reports that Tornado Alley, usually associated with states west of Kentucky, may be shifting eastward. I’m no expert, but I fear that, because of climate change, our weather may become more unpredictable or, at least, that old patterns we have depended on for many years have begun to change. • • •

“April showers bring May flowers” makes a fine poetic line, but sometimes, rainfall can be excessive, causing widespread damage in the Ohio Valley. What eastern Kentuckians called “tides” in the spring carried logs to mills along the Kentucky River in the early 20th century. A “tie tide” was one that was high and swift enough to carry hand-hewn railroad ties down the middle of the stream to a waiting market. While the record-breaking 1937 Ohio Valley flood took place in January, flooding of Kentucky’s rivers often occurs in the spring of the year. Flash floods can strike at any time. The savage storms of April 3-4, 1974, when 148 tornadoes struck across the country, were once considered the worst in our history. At the time, we depended entirely on radio and television for warnings. My wife, Charlotte, was at church when the storm hit Richmond. Our two children and I were at home. I looked out a window and saw a huge white cloud suddenly sweep over a hill. I was later told that a tornado had picked up water from a pond or possibly a sizable lake behind our house. Like a fool, I watched it. The electricity went off only Readers may contact Bill Ellis at editor@kentuckymonthly.com 58 K E NT U C K Y M O NTHLY APRI L 2022

The month of April can be one of the most dangerous months of the year, but for Charlotte and me, it has special meaning. The opening line of this essay is from the movie April Love starring Pat Boone and Shirley Jones. After a successful 1957 Shelbyville Red Devil football season, marred only by defeat in the Burley Bowl by the Elizabethtown Panthers, I asked a beautiful classmate, Charlotte Frances Rohrer, for a date. Although we had known each other since fifth grade, I was rather bashful when it came to dating. “Lottie” agreed to taking in a movie in Louisville. I borrowed my parents’ 1956 Dodge hardtop, and off we went to see April Love at Loew’s Theatre. The song is special, particularly the last lines: “April love can slip right through your fingers, so if she’s the one, don’t let her run away.” I did not. This coming July 30, we will celebrate our 62nd anniversary. What a lucky guy I am.

DOWNTOWN FRANKFORT

E AT • S H O P • E X P L O R E

Uniting Kentuckians Everywhere

Saturday May 7, 2022

v i si t fra n k fo r t. co m K E N T U C K Y M O N T H L Y. C O M

k e n t u c k y m o n t h l y. c o m 59

gardening by Walt Reichert

2022: Vegetable Gardening Still in Vogue

wo years after we supposedly “flattened the curve,” we’re still dealing with the effects of COVID19 and its various mutations. Deaths and hospitalizations are the worst part of this ordeal, but we’re also wearying of empty shelves, supply-chain disruptions, and continued uncertainty about when it all will end. If there’s anything good to come of this plague, it’s that the interest in growing our own fruits and vegetables remains strong. Over my lifespan, interest in vegetable gardening has waxed and waned every few years, often depending on the state of the economy. In good times, we don’t feel the urge to grow our own food when we can just get it from the grocery store. In tougher times, we feel the need to grow our own food again. These are definitely tougher times. Let’s get started on that vegetable garden!

SITE, SUN AND SOIL When I taught beginning vegetable gardening through the Extension office, my first lesson always was entitled “Site, sun and soil.” Those three S’s are critical to getting off on the right foot. You don’t need much room to grow a lot of food, but you do need to put that garden site in the right location. The first consideration is sun. Some plants will do well in the shade; vegetables will not. Find a spot that gets at least six hours of sun every day. (The lettuces could probably

survive with a little bit less, but they won’t thrive.) The fruiting vegetables—tomatoes, peppers, squash and melons—require as much as eight hours of sun every day, and a full day of sun is better. If the site is shady for part of the day, try to arrange the plot so that the shade falls in the afternoon/evening. Morning sun is cooler, and it dries off foliage more quickly, reducing disease pressure. Your vegetable garden needs sunlight, but it also needs good drainage. Do not put the garden in a low spot. Watch the ground around your yard after a heavy rain early this month. If water is still standing a half-day later, that spot is too wet for a vegetable garden. If your best sunny spot is low, then you have a few options. You can make raised beds to put the plants up above the soil level. You can try the straw bale gardening technique, which is all the rage these days (fodder for another column!), or you can try the German technique, called hügelkultur, which is raising a garden bed above logs that will break down over time to supply nutrients to the plants (more fodder for another column!). Just remember that, whether you garden in raised beds or straw bales or on the tops of logs, you will need to water more frequently than if the vegetables are growing at ground level. Speaking of watering, when selecting the site for your food garden, try to locate it as near the house as possible. A garden near the

Readers may contact Walt Reichert at editor@kentuckymonthly.com 60 K E NT U C K Y M O NT HLY APRI L 2 0 2 2

kitchen is going to be better tended and watered than a garden 100 yards out back. Plus, critters that love vegetable gardens, especially deer, are a little more reluctant to come close to the house than swipe from a garden in the back 40.

DON’T CALL IT ‘DIRT’ Some of us in Kentucky are blessed with pretty good gardening soil. Many—probably most—of us are not. Good garden soil is not only welldrained, but it also contains a moderate amount of organic matter with plenty of pore space, giving plant roots room to grow. If roots won’t grow, the plant won’t grow. The thin, acidic soils of eastern Kentucky are not hospitable to plants. Neither are the heavy clays of most of the rest of the state. The good news is that soil can be improved; the bad news is that soil improvement takes a while. Meanwhile, we can use synthetic fertilizers—think 10-10-10—to boost plant yields while we’re improving the soil. Working barnyard manure and compost into the soil at the garden site in the fall or winter will improve the soil. Just an inch or so of compost or manure spread over the garden does wonders. Put that on the calendar; it’s too late to do it this spring. Do not spread manure over a food garden within 120 days of consuming the vegetables to avoid pathogens. At this point, it’s my obligation to

recommend that you visit your local Extension office to do two things. First, get a soil test of the area you are considering for your food garden. That test will tell you what, if any, fertilizers or lime you need and how much to apply. The test is free in some counties if you are a resident and costs a few bucks in others. It’s well worth the investment. Second, ask for the publication Home Vegetable Gardening in Kentucky. It gives fertilizer recommendations, has detailed tables on how many feet of row to plant per person in the family, includes the best time of year to plant, and provides optimum times for harvesting. The publication also has a wealth of information on insect and disease control, including recommendations for gardeners who wish to use strictly organic methods. The publication has useful diagrams of sample food plots as well. I could write 10 columns on vegetable growing and not cover everything available in the University of Kentucky’s Home Vegetable Gardening in Kentucky. The final step is breaking ground and planting. Ideally, the site should have been tilled or plowed in the fall or winter, but if not, the key is to kill the sod thoroughly and mix it well into the soil. That may take a couple of rounds of digging or tilling, depending on your strength and the size of the garden. This is when you’ll appreciate my advice that you can grow a lot of food in a small space. Good luck, and here’s to a bountiful harvest. k e n t u c k y m o n t h l y. c o m 61

field notes by Gary Garth

Crappie Men (and Women)

have enjoyed the good fortune of having known and shared a boat with some good crappie fishermen—Billy, Scott, Dean, Elizabeth, William, Capt. Dan … it’s a treasured list. But two of the best crappie anglers I’ve known—L.D. Davis and Mike Morris—lived in Missouri but did the bulk of their crappie fishing in Kentucky, on Kentucky Lake. So impressed were they with the fishing that both men secured property near the state’s namesake impoundment, the primary requirement of which was to provide a secure and close-to-the-water place to house their boats and fishing gear—and quick access to the fish. Neither man cared much for bass or catfish or any other finned critters that prowl the watershed’s sometimes murky waters. They were crappie purists. Crappie (pronounced “crapie” in a few outlying regions of the country but “cropie” in and around Kentucky and across the Southeast) are members of the sunfish family. There are two versions: whites and blacks. Whites are silvery and generally slightly thinner than their black cousins. Black crappie are relative newcomers to Kentucky Lake but currently make up the majority (or a large minority, fisheries being an inexact science) of the lake’s crappie population. Blacks sometimes favor more rocky shore cover and clearer water than their white relatives, but, particularly in the early springtime, both are easily found and sometimes easily caught. Bag limits are generous. The Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources identify the two fish this way: White crappie—“A silvery sunfish with a deep body that is very thin from side to side.” The dorsal fin also has six spines. Black crappie—“Silvery olive in color with numerous black spots irregularly spaced over its body.” The dorsal fin has seven or eight spines. Crappie do not grow to eye-popping size. A 3-pounder is a trophy by any measure. The Kentucky state record crappie (the state wildlife agency does not recognize individual records for white and black crappie), set in 2005, is 4 pounds, 14 ounces. That’s an impressive panfish.

Most anglers fish a lifetime and never land a 4-pound crappie. Few see a 3-pounder. The International Game Fish Association does keep separate records for white and black crappie. The current world record black crappie is a 5-pound, 7-ounce fish taken from a Loudon County, Tennessee, pond in 2018. The world record white (5 pounds, 3 ounces from Mississippi’s Lake Enid), while slightly smaller than its black record-holding cousin, is something of a legendary fish. The record has stood since 1957. In the current sportfishing world dominated by the sometimes overly employed catch-and-release mantra, crappie are outliers. They’re a meat fish. Crappie fishermen fish for food. Officially considered a sportfish, when it comes to fighting ability, crappie are lightweights. Super lightweights. If you want a fish that will put a bend in the rod, cast for bass, trout or catfish. However, crappie are one the best of the best-tasting fresh-water fish. Crappie can be caught year-round, but April is prime crappie time in Kentucky and especially on Kentucky Lake. That’s not because the fishing weather is often ideal (crappie don’t particularly care if the day is 72 degrees and sunny with a light south breeze). It’s because in early to mid-April, water temperatures usually are in the high 50s to mid-60s, which is just the right temperature to trigger crappie spawning activity. Fish move into shallow water— typically 2 to 6 feet deep—to spawn. They are easy to find and sometimes easy to catch. Spawning crappie are generally a shallow-water pursuit. A bass boat, jon boat, canoe, kayak, float tube … anything seaworthy will generally handle crappie water conditions. Pick spots that can be reached from the bank or by wading. Crappie can be caught just about any way you like to fish: tightlining live bait (or a jig) or casting a small jig under a bobber. A fly rod can be an effective tool for spawning crappie. A cane pole works just fine, too. Mike and L.D. were dual-hook live-bait men, favoring a tightline bottom bouncing rig with minnows hooked through the lip for bait. Before the days of eyes-in-thewater quality fishing electronics, Mike’s wife, Liz—a superb angler in her own right—would, working from the bow, sound the bottom with an anchor so the boat could easily follow the edge of the creek channel into prime crappie cover. It was surprisingly effective. • • •

Kentucky’s 2022-23 sporting license year began March 1. Licenses are available at the office of most county clerks, sporting goods retailers and online at fw.ky.gov.

Readers may contact Gary Garth at editor@kentuckymonthly.com 62 K E NT U C K Y M O NTHLY APRI L 2 0 2 2

calendar

APRIL 2022 SUNDAY

MONDAY

Ongoing Welcome to Derbyville Exhibit, Kentucky

Ongoing Beautiful Horses of Kentucky Exhibit, Lexington

Derby Museum, Louisville, through May 31, 502.637.1111

The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane,

TUESDAY

Louisville Zoo, through June 5, 502.459.2181

Chicago: The Musical,

Louisville Palace, 1.800.745.3000

RiverPark Center, Owensboro, 270.687.2770

Waitress,

Easter

55th Annual Bardstown Antique Show,

<<<

Rhapsody in Black, EKU Center for the Arts, Richmond, 859.622.7469

Popovich Comedy Pet Theater, Glema

Mahr Center for the Arts, Madisonville, 270.824.8650

Grand Rivers Quilt Show,

Burlington Antique Show, Boone County Fair Grounds, Burlington, 513.922.6847

Buddy Guy in Concert,

Tea Tuesday,

Public Library, through May 31, 859.231.5500

FRIDAY

Paramount Arts Center, Ashland, 606.324.0007

Lexington Opera House, Lexington, through April 7, 859.233.4567

Celtic Woman in Concert,

THURSDAY

Ongoing Wild Lights,

Waveland State Historic Site, Lexington, also April 12, 19 and 26, 859.272.3611

Lexington Children's Theatre, through April 10, 859.254.4546

WEDNESDAY

Grand Rivers Community Center, through April 30, 270.362.0152

<<<

Guthrie Opportunity Center, Bardstown, through April 9, 317.250.0193

Louisville Palace, 1.800.745.3000

Butler State Resort Park, Carrollton, 502.564.4270

Barn Lot Theatre, Edmonton, through May 1, 270.432.2276

Lexington Opera House, through April 24, 859.233.4567

Blackberry Smoke: You Hear Georgia Tour,

Farce of Habit,

Land Rover Kentucky ThreeDay Event, Kentucky Horse Park, Lexington, through May 1, 859.254.8123

Drive-Thru Easter Egg Hunt, General

Hairspray,

The Queen’s Cartoonists, Norton Center for the Arts, Danville, 859.236.4692

SATURDAY

Oak Ridge Boys in Concert, Mountain Arts Center, Prestonsburg, 606.886.2623

Elton John in Concert, Kentucky Derby Museum, Louisville, 502.637.1111

Spring Fling Art Festival, West Court Street, Lawrenceburg, 502.353.4238

Chris Stapleton in Concert, Kroger Field, University of Kentucky, Lexington, 1.800.928.2287

Orchestra Kentucky: Hotel California – A Salute to the Eagles, SKyPAC, Bowling Green, 270.904.1880

a guide to Kentucky’s most interesting events For a more extensive listing of events, visit kentuckymonthly.com. k e n t u c k y m o n t h l y. c o m 63

vested interest

Spring Prayers “Spring training means flowers, people coming outdoors, sunshine, optimism and baseball. Spring training is a time to think about being young again.” — Chicago Cubs legend Ernie Banks

nown as Mr. Cub, Ernie Banks played shortstop and first base in the Windy City from 1953-71. He died in 2015, and I can’t help but wonder what he’d think about this spring, a season short on optimism and almost without baseball. But let’s move on. Author Susan J. Bissonette, best known for her positive quotes in Reader’s Digest, said, “An optimist is the human personification of spring.” We’ll accept that as fact for the basis of the rest of this piece. In John 15:7, Jesus says, “If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.” I believe in the power of prayer, and, in God’s time, all prayers are answered. They may not be answered in the way we expect, but there’s no harm in asking. My first prayer is that by the time you read this, Russia will have started its withdrawal from Ukraine. Hopefully, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and his people are emerging from their bunkers, their freedom preserved. I know that’s probably too optimistic, but reason must prevail. Few of us realize that nearly a halfmillion (491,174) Ukrainians call America home. They live in at least 70 of Kentucky’s more than 600 cities, and Lockport, a tiny Kentucky River community in Henry County, ranks 36th in the nation by percentage (8.61) per capita. The most significant STEPHEN M. VEST overall numbers are in Bowling Green, Publisher + Editor-in-Chief Murray and Lexington, but Ukrainians are well represented in Oldham, Boyle and Kenton counties. They’re our neighbors, our friends. Let’s pray that their families overseas emerge safely. In the meantime, you can help those fleeing the war by contacting John Koehlinger at Kentucky Refugee Ministries in Louisville. His number is (502) 479-9180. Let’s pray that the COVID-19 numbers continue to decrease and that we can find ways to communicate better and cooperate. We’ve all noticed how rude and

impatient we’ve become, and that’s not who we are. We look silly complaining about gasoline being $4 a gallon when we’re sipping a $6 cup of coffee—yeah, I stole that quip from the internet. Selfishly, I pray that peace will prevail and that my youngest daughter and her Western Kentucky University classmates will get to do their study-abroad trip to Scotland and Ireland. The opportunity was canceled once because of COVID-19, and my prayer is that it won’t be canceled again, this time because of Russian aggression. It isn’t just Sydney and her roommate who I’m praying for (although I’d like for them to have the once-in-a-lifetime experience); it’s because her getting to go is a sign that our world is returning to normal. I’m optimistic that it will. After all, the finches have already returned to my office windowsill to pick strands of screen to use in their nests. Kentucky Monthly’s trip to Italy, which was canceled in 2020 and twice in 2021, is back on the books for Sept. 1-9. We’ll visit the Vatican, the Sistine Chapel and the Pantheon. We’ll travel to Venice (two days), Florence (two days), Bologna, Siena and then spend three days in Rome. If you’d like to join us (yes, you), it’s not too late. Call me at 502.227.0053, and I’ll send you the details. Praying for sports teams is taboo, so I’ll wish the Wildcats or Racers find success in the NCAA Tournament and hope one is still playing when you read this. Let’s pray that, with spring, we can all find it in our hearts to love, or at least respect, one another. I know we can. I’m an optimist. Readers, and those looking for a speaker for a church or civic group, may contact Stephen M. Vest at steve@kentuckymonthly.com

Kwiz Answers: 1. B. The Kentucky Derby has been run at Louisville’s Churchill Downs ever since, and the festivities preceding the big race include several weeks of events known as the Kentucky Derby Festival (see page 23); 2. A. The winning Thoroughbred is draped with a blanket adorned with more than 400 red roses and weighing around 40 pounds; 3. C. Traditionally taking place on the first Saturday in May, the Derby is known for its attendees wearing elegant hats and its popular infield; 4. C. 3-year-old Thoroughbreds compete for the coveted blanket of roses and a chance at winning the Triple Crown; 5. C. Aristides ran the 1½-mile distance of the inaugural Derby in 2:37¾ under jockey Oliver Lewis; 6. A. At Churchill Downs, the traditional Derby drink is made with Old Forester Mint Julep ready-to-serve cocktail, mint sprigs and ice; 7. B. Winning the Triple Crown is a rare feat that has been achieved by only 13 horses; 8. A. Regret was the first filly to win the Derby in 1915, followed by Genuine Risk in 1980 and Winning Colors in 1988; 9. C. An estimated audience of 10-15 million enjoyed the 1952 televised event; 10. B. Jockey Diane Crump competed in the 1970 Kentucky Derby; 11. C. The race initially was 1½ miles long, with the distance changed to 1¼ miles in 1896; 12. A. While the race usually takes a few seconds longer than 2 minutes, two horses have completed the circuit under that mark—Secretariat, who won the 1973 Kentucky Derby in 1:59 2/5, and Monarchos, who won the 2001 Derby in a computer-timed 1:59.97. 64 K E NT U C K Y M O NT HLY APRI L 2022

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