Jeffersontown Magazine July 2026

HONORING HEROES

JEFFERSONTOWN MUSEUM

SALUTES LOCAL VETERANS & THEIR SACRIFICE

PUBLISHER

COREY BOSTON corey@townepost.com (502) 431-3037

KEY CONTRIBUTORS

BETH BECKWITH

MELISSA GIBSON

GAVIN LAPAILLE

HELEN E. MCKINNEY

BETH WILDER

STEVE WISER

TOWNE POST NETWORK, INC. FOUNDER, CEO TOM BRITT tom@townepost.com (463) 842-1488

PRESIDENT JEANNE BRITT jeanne@townepost.com (317) 810-0011

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER ERIN TURK

CREATIVE DIRECTORS VAL AUSTIN TONI EADS

EDITOR JOSH BROWN

DIGITAL CONTENT MANAGER ERIC NEER

DIRECTOR OF DIGITAL ENGAGEMENT SKYLAR ANDERTON

TOWNE POST NETWORK, INC. 8800 North Street, Suite 117 Fishers, IN 46038 Phone/Text: (317) 810-0011

CONTACT THE PUBLISHER Have a story idea or suggestion for the magazine?

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HONORING HEROES

JEFFERSONTOWN MUSEUM SALUTES LOCAL VETERANS & THEIR SACRIFICE

Writer / Beth Wilder, Director, Jeffersontown Museum

To celebrate the 250 years of freedom that United States military veterans have provided us, the Jeffersontown Historical Museum has created an exhibit to pay tribute to our local veterans and the immense

sacrifices they have made to ensure that freedom. The display, created with help from Jeffersontown’s American Legion G.I. Post #244 and Greg Bunnell, includes artifacts from the Revolutionary War era through more modern times, highlighting some interesting facts you may not have known about our hometown heroes.

For example — were you aware that Maj. Robert Anderson, the commander of Fort Sumter, was the son of Col. Richard Clough Anderson, whose rebuilt home, Soldier’s Retreat, stands just off Hurstbourne Parkway? At the time Richard Anderson came to the area, Indian attacks were still occurring, and it was to his home that Peggy Chenoweth and other survivors of the Chenoweth Run massacre in Middletown were taken for safety while recovering from their very serious wounds.

Many of Jeffersontown’s earliest settlers were Revolutionary War veterans and/or served in various militias up through the War of 1812. The Jeffersontown Museum

currently has on display the Kentucky Long Rifle of Windle Miller, who lived in the Billtown Road area in the early 1800s. Philip Winand, buried in the old German Reformed Presbyterian Cemetery, was a member of Gen. George Washington’s mobile reserve troops, established in 1776 and known as the “Flying Camp.”

Although — thankfully — nothing major happened in Jeffersontown during the Civil War, there was an incident brought about by a visit from Confederate guerilla Sue Mundy and his cohorts to a tavern on the town square that ultimately led to the execution in Jeffersontown of four Confederate prisoners, two of whom are buried in the Jeffersontown Cemetery. On display with Ashley Davis’ Union cap and some small cannonballs is a genuine hardtack biscuit carried by McDonald Walters during the war.

Our World War I exhibit includes a list from The Jeffersonian newspaper of the first draftees from Jefferson County, along with the uniform of William Henry Ohlmann.

Uniforms of other local veterans from World War II to more modern times are on display throughout the museum, along with countless other items, from helmets to hygiene kits.

Some interesting artifacts include the coffin tag that accompanied the body of Earl Tarrence, a young seaman who was the first known casualty from Jeffersontown when the

U.S.S. Houston was sunk in 1942, as well as the diving helmet of Senior Chief Bill Neal, who served in the U.S. Navy from 1958-1978. Also on display are uniforms of ordnance officer Franklin Chambers, who became mayor of Jeffersontown in the 1960s — we even have a charming photo of Chambers in uniform, taken at Tucker’s Lake.

One very special artifact on display is the

Eisenhower jacket worn by Charles William Peers, who was judged to be “The Typical G.I. Joe” in a national contest held in 1944 by radio-show host Eddie Cantor. Out of more than 25,000 entries, Iris Peers’ letter about her husband won the couple $5,000, with which they bought a farm and later moved to S. Watterson Trail in our neighboring town of Fern Creek.

We have not forgotten our female veterans, either. World War II uniforms of Dr. Kathleen Drummond, a second lieutenant in the U.S. Marine Corps, are on display. She looked amazingly similar to recruitment posters of the same era.

Speaking of women — the museum also has a “Sweethearts” exhibit to honor the women who stood behind the men who fought so valiantly for our freedoms. Many a couple met at the various dances held in town — especially at Bowman Field, which, incidentally, once shared the same ZIP code as Jeffersontown. On exhibit is a gown made

by Joanne Tanselle Taylor just for such dances.

And speaking of dancing — did you know that in 1942, Jeffersontown residents Ernie and Ada Grawemeyer founded the Union Barrack-ades, an all-volunteer entertainment troupe that put on shows for soldiers, both at home and overseas?

Troop morale was important, and the museum also has on display a field organ, which was used for worship services, and an accordion that belonged to Xavier “Bud” Singler. Singler and his friends hid his accordion and other musical instruments for fear of having them taken away, but when their commanding officer found out how they were entertaining themselves, he insisted on keeping the instruments in his jeep so they would always be available at a moment’s notice.

Of course, medical care was a must for soldiers. Dr. J.R. Shacklette, whose home/

office still stands on the town square, and Aileen Lacy Bryan, a Red Cross nurse who was the granddaughter of one of Jeffersontown’s earliest doctors, both served overseas during World War I. Throughout World War II, Jeffersontown’s much-beloved Dr. John Bishop was asked to remain at home and serve county residents from Eastwood to Okolona.

Joseph Campbell stated, “A hero is someone who has given his or her life to something bigger than oneself.” Our freedom is perhaps the biggest gift we could ask for, and too many take it for granted. We hope the Jeffersontown Museum’s current exhibit conveys our gratitude for the selflessness and sacrifices of those who have served and continue to serve our country. Thank you.

The Jeffersontown Museum is located at 10635 Watterson Trail (in the back of the library) and is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is free.

REVOLUTIONARY ROOTS

LOUISVILLE MUSEUM BRINGS AMERICA’S FOUNDING ERA TO LIFE

Writer / Helen E. McKinney

It’s not in any of the places you would think it would be — Philadelphia, Boston or Washington, D.C. One of the most “truly American” museums centering on the Revolutionary War era is in Louisville, Kentucky.

The National Society Sons of the American Revolution Education Center & Museum is located at 809 W. Main St. and has been undergoing a major renovation. It is a place where you can learn about our nation’s past, see artifacts used in daily life 250 years ago, and research your Patriot ancestor.

The National Society of the Sons of the American Revolution (NSSAR or SAR) was founded in 1889 and has since been headquartered in Louisville. A $30 million project, the expanded 10,000-squarefoot SAR Education Center & Museum will highlight the ideals of our patriot ancestors and tell the story of the American Revolution on the world stage.

Planned in preparation for America’s 250th birthday, visitors will be able to tour two

floors consisting of three galleries, 17 hightech interactive exhibits and a theater that will bring the past to life. The SAR’s national Genealogical Research Library, located next to the museum, houses one of the nation’s premier genealogical libraries, containing more than 50,000 books featuring historical lineage from floor to ceiling.

“The project is being completed in phases,” says Rae Ann Sauer, director for education and outreach at NSSAR. “By late fall, the museum will be open to select groups and the grand opening will be in early 2027.”

She says the museum is set to be “an immersive experience, where visitors are taken back in time to the sights, sounds and smells of the American Revolution.” She pointed out that there will be many digital interactive elements, which will also be available online for members and the public around the country to use.

Sauer says that to date, more than $28 million has been raised for this project over several years, including funding for the

SAR Genealogical Research Library. “$5 million of that money was a grant from the Commonwealth of Kentucky, while most of the rest was from private donors, most from out of state.”

Phil Bloyd, executive director for SAR, says the new museum and education center “represents a defining moment for the Sons of the American Revolution. We are incredibly fortunate to call Louisville home to this landmark institution, where the story of our nation’s founding will come to life for generations. This facility will significantly expand our capacity to deliver high-quality educational programming, engage broader audiences, and elevate the visibility of our mission across the country — ensuring that the ideals of the American Revolution continue to inform and inspire for years to come.”

The focus of the nonprofit SAR is to honor Revolutionary War patriot ancestors by promoting patriotism, serving communities, educating and inspiring future generations about the founding principles of our

country, and constantly seeking ways to preserve this American history. SAR members are very active, volunteering countless hours a year in their local communities to carry out this mission.

NSSAR is a congressionally chartered organization and one of the largest male societies in the country. Any male 18 years or older — regardless of race, religion or ethnic background — who can prove blood lineal descent from a patriot of the American Revolution is eligible for membership in the SAR.

The SAR Genealogical Research Library is free for SAR members and $5 for the public. It is filled with resources for tracing family history, early American records and Revolutionary War connections. You’ll find family histories, state records and archives, along with online databases.

A plus to having the library and museum in Louisville is that “many Revolutionary War

museums are on the East Coast in cities such as Philadelphia or Boston. Many families in the U.S. may not be able to make it to those locations. However, Louisville is within a day’s driving distance of over half the country’s population, making it much more accessible to the average family,” Sauer says.

The crowning glory is that select premier 18th-century artifacts from the SAR collection will be on display to help tell the broader story of what life was like in 18th-century colonial America, she says. The basement has a climate-controlled room filled with artifacts from the American Revolution, including a signed document from 1776 by George Washington.

Zac Distel, SAR curator and director of collections, says approximately “10-20% of the collection will be on display at any given time. This is typical for museums, as a top priority is to preserve the collection for current and future generations. Artifacts will routinely be rotated to allow them to ‘rest,’

and so visitors will see something new each time they visit.”

Thanks to the generosity of SAR members from across the country, the vast majority of artifacts in the SAR’s collection have been donated, he says. “Such artifacts are evidence of the American Revolution and inform our understanding of those historical events.”

Close examination of each artifact leads us to “learn more about the people and events of the Revolution. What is this made of? How was it made? Who made it? When was it made? Where was it made?

Answering these questions about each artifact helps it tell the story of the American Revolution.”

Even though it seems a daunting task to select a portion of the museum’s collection to be displayed, Distel says a curator’s most difficult task is perhaps to “decide what will not appear in an exhibit. Each artifact that

will appear in the new museum will have been meticulously selected and considered for its condition, the story it tells, and its ability to engage visitors and spark their interest in the American Revolution. So, yes, this is a difficult task but one that the SAR is very glad to grapple with.”

Kentucky played an important role in the Revolutionary War. While the SAR collection is not specific to Kentucky, Distel

says the society has a deep appreciation for the location of its museum and has worked hard to ensure it will tell the story of the Revolution in the West. For example, he says the SAR recently acquired a 1782 document signed by Daniel Boone that highlights the tumultuous months following the Battle of Blue Licks.

The location of the museum is equally important. The SAR National Headquarters

is on the outskirts of Fort Nelson. This was a fort built in 1781 by troops under Gen. George Rogers Clark. It was the second onshore fort erected on the Ohio River in the area that is now downtown Louisville.

“Artifacts related to Fort Nelson are very scarce, but the SAR was able to acquire a voucher written and signed by George Rogers Clark at Fort Nelson. It is remarkable to look at a document that is

nearly 250 years old and written less than 500 feet from headquarters!”

To add to the spirit of the era, a replica Liberty Bell will be featured in the museum, Sauer says. It is an exact replica of the original, made by Whitechapel Bell Foundry in England, the same company that made the original in Philadelphia. “The SAR wanted to take on this project to share its extensive collection of 18th-century documents and artifacts with the public.”

Through Labor Day weekend, visitors will be able to see a rare 1823 William Stone copy of the Declaration of Independence on display in the Craik Room of the SAR Genealogical Research Library. It is free to view in celebration of America’s 250th birthday.

For more information, call 502-589-1776 or visit sar.org/headquarters.

AMERICA 250

LOUISVILLE CELEBRATES NATION’S 250th ANNIVERSARY

Writer / Melissa Gibson

The 13 colonies had declared rebellion against Great Britain in 1775, and the American Revolutionary War was already underway when the Second Continental Congress appointed George Washington its commander in chief. One year later, the Declaration of Independence was adopted unanimously in 1776.

This year, we celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the Revolutionary War.

It’s the Semiquincentennial, dubbed America 250, and celebratory events promise to be bigger and better than ever — even happening long before and after our nation’s Independence Day, including county and state fair themes, holiday celebrations and special events, all with America 250 at the center.

Mayor Craig Greenberg and Metro Council created the America250KY Committee in Louisville to plan, encourage, develop and implement events all year long, and they hope to highlight Louisville’s unique story and its contribution to the country in the process.

Whether you celebrate the Fourth of July with the traditional cookout and fireworks or look

for something new and exciting to do each year, there’s no doubt that July 4, 2026, will be a special one.

Over July 3-5, parks, businesses and towns in the Louisville area are hosting a variety of events you won’t want to miss.

• Celebrate Independence Day weekend with the first-ever J-Town Stars & Stripes Fest at 7 p.m. July 3 and 4 at Jeffersontown Amphitheater. Catch JD Shelburne with Brock Shoemaker on July 3 and The Crashers with Josh Logan on July 4. Tickets are $10 per person each evening.

• Kentucky Kingdom: Bluegrass & Booms — All weekend long, July 3-5, Kentucky Kingdom will commemorate Independence Day weekend with daily fireworks, unique food offerings, live music, extended operating hours and more.

• The Little Patriot Fun Run is at 4 p.m. July 3, starting at Independence Bank, 3901 Shelbyville Road, St. Matthews. As part of the River City Races Run 502 Series, participants younger than 9 are invited to run 49 yards or 84 yards depending on age. Tickets are $10 per person.

• Directly following is the St. Matthews Freedom

Fest from 4-9 p.m. July 3 on Westport Road. Kicking off the holiday weekend, visitors can enjoy live music, a kids area with games, military displays and local St. Matthews restaurants serving the public. More than 50 market vendors will be on hand, and proceeds benefit the St. Matthews Fire Department Benevolence Fund.

• The following morning, the annual Independence Day 5K will start at 8 a.m. July 4 at St. Matthews Baptist Church, 3515 Grandview Ave. Kick off the nation’s celebration and grab the entire family to participate in a decades-old walk/run race through the neighborhoods of St. Matthews.

• Trellis Brewing hosts Everyone Rides Together at 10 a.m. July 4, beginning and ending at 827 Logan St. The fifth annual cycling event offers a 24- or 34-mile route.

• Crescent Hill’s Fourth of July Festival, from 10 a.m.-10 p.m. July 4 at Peterson-Dumesnil House, 301 S. Peterson Ave., includes a full day of activities and entertainment, including an

art fair, food trucks, live music, a pet contest, cake-baking contest and, of course, fireworks at 10 p.m.

• The Waterfront’s Fourth of July Festival is from 5-10 p.m. July 4 at 129 E. River Road. Gather on the Big Four Lawn to enjoy family activities, the Waterfront’s Most Talented variety show produced in partnership with Jou Jou Presents, followed by fireworks at 10 p.m. from a barge on the Ohio River.

• An America 250 Celebration from 6-10 p.m. July 5 at Wetherby Park, 11803 Old Shelbyville Road, will serve as a stop on the City of Middletown’s 2026 concert series. Enjoy live music by The Checkmates, bringing a patriotic flair to the evening, along with time spent with friends and family as the holiday weekend winds down.

HOW DID LOUISVILLE OBTAIN ITS OWN COPY?

Nearly 50 years after Thomas Jefferson and others signed the Declaration of Independence in 1776, John Quincy Adams, son of signer John Adams and then secretary of state, hired William Stone to create an exact copy as the original ink had begun to fade.

It took him three years, but Stone perfectly copied the Declaration and its 56 signatures onto a copper plate for reprinting. In 1823, 200 copies on parchment paper were delivered to each of the original signers still living, the president, Congress, the Supreme Court, several Cabinet secretaries, each state and territory, and several universities.

Today, only 31 of those 200 copies are known to survive, and only one remains in Kentucky.

The family of William P. Mulloy donated it to Louisville in 1986.

CAMOUFLAGE CROAK EGGS FLOAT HABITAT HIBERNATE INSECTS LARVAE LEAP LILY PAD LUNGS MATING MUD PREDATOR RIVER SPECIES STICKY STREAM TONGUE TROPICAL WART WEBBED P F M S T I

THRILLS REMEMBERED

HISTORIC AMUSEMENT PARKS ONCE DEFINED SUMMER FUN IN LOUISVILLE

Writer / Steve Wiser

Shrieks and thrills are all part of the exhilarating experience of an amusement park. Getting away for a brief diversion from daily life is what these spine-tingling destinations are all about. Louisvillians have been enjoying these delightful escapes for more than 100 years. While Kentucky Kingdom’s ‘Lightning Run’ and ‘Wind Chaser’ are some of today’s exciting rides, ‘Shoot the Chutes’ and the ‘Comet’ were just as much fun in the early 1900s.

On April 27, 1907, the “White City” amusement park opened on 14 acres at the western end of Greenwood Avenue, adjacent to the Ohio River. Promoted as the “Coney Island of the South,” its attractions included the ‘Canal of Venice’ boats, a scenic railroad, a vaudeville stage and a bathing beach. The highlight was the ‘Shoot the Chutes,’ which had thrill-seekers sitting in a boat. This boat was then pulled up a steep ramp by a cable and released, plunging the screaming passengers into the lagoon below. It is not known if there were any restraining devices for the riders or how drenched they were afterward, but it definitely was a white-

knuckle E-ticket trip.

Louisville’s ‘White City’ was based on Chicago’s 1893 World’s Fair Exposition, which was nicknamed the ‘White City.’ Like Chicago, Louisville’s White City had whitewashed structures that were lit by 250,000 lights. Throughout the nation, there were at least 27 additional White City amusement parks.

Just north of White City was an even grander and more famous amusement park: Fontaine Ferry. Named for Aaron Fontaine, who operated a ferry at the western terminus of Fontaine Ferry Road (now known as Market Street), Louisvillians have mispronounced the family name ever since as FOUNtian Ferry. It opened in 1905 by Hopkins Amusements of St. Louis. John Miller, who was responsible for planning the acclaimed Palisades Park in New Jersey, designed it.

Fontaine Ferry had more than 50 rides and attractions on 64 acres. A wooden roller coaster, roller-skating rink, an

extremely large swimming pool, a Ferris wheel, a carousel and, in later years, a gokart turnpike were some of the enticing attendance-getters. Besides these features, the park also had live entertainment by national celebrities such as trumpeter Louis Armstrong, the Tommy Dorsey Orchestra, the John Philip Sousa Band, dancer Fred Astaire, vaudeville humorist Will Rogers, actress Mary Pickford and singer Frank Sinatra, among many others.

No visit was complete without a trip to ‘Hilarity Hall,’ an enclosed pavilion containing several feat-defying challenges like tumbling inside the rotating ‘Barrel of Fun,’ zooming down a steep slide on a burlap sack or spinning uncontrollably within a wooden bowl. Sam and Sue, two oversized jovial mannequins, greeted the daring guests.

Located next to the Ohio River, the 1937 flood inundated the grounds, causing the park to miss that season, but it reopened in 1938. However, during this racially segregated Jim Crow period, Fontaine Ferry

prohibited minorities from admittance until after the Civil Rights Act of 1964 was enacted.

Across the Ohio River in New Albany was a similar festive location that was more of a sports park than amusement. Glenwood Park, started in 1903, was located near the intersection of Spring and Beharrell streets. While it did have a carousel and miniature railroad, there were more athletic activities like baseball and football fields, tennis courts, fishing and swimming in nearby Silver Creek, as well as a theater and dance hall. A large Chautauqua tent offered educational displays and presentations.

For a more extended leisure pursuit, Rose Island upriver in Southern Indiana near Charlestown was the place to relax. David Rose, a Louisville printing company executive, purchased 118 acres of the former Fern Grove recreational camp in 1923. It wasn’t actually an “island” but a

Creek and the Ohio River. Rose built a hotel, swimming pool, golf course, zoo (with wolves, monkeys and a bear), restaurant and dance hall. He also had 22 summer cottages constructed. Rose Island did have a carousel, pony rides and canoeing, but it was more of a resort than an amusement park. It was an extremely popular getaway with 132,000 visitors in 1932.

Traveling to Rose Island was an adventure in itself. A steamboat trip from the downtown wharf up past Six Mile Island and Twelve Mile Island on the Ohio River provided heightened anticipation for the soon-to-beenjoyed amenities.

And, in the early 1900s, when automobiles were not as prevalent, public transportation in the form of streetcars provided another

fascinating ride as part of the amusement park experience. The streetcar lines ran westward along Market Street to arrive at Fontaine Ferry and along Broadway to access White City. For Glenwood Park, an even more enthralling trip was had on the interurban rail line that went over the Ohio River via the Big Four Bridge and then around to New Albany. The Louisville and Southern Indiana Traction Company

owned Glenwood Park and thus benefitted in several ways from this unique logistical arrangement.

All four of these amusement parks were exceedingly popular, with crowds enjoying the summertime festivities. But within 50 years, they were mostly memories of a bygone era. So, what happened to these funfilled retreats of yesteryear?

Rose Island succumbed to the devastation inflicted by the flood of 1937. Attendance had already been negatively impacted by the Great Depression. The property was acquired during World War II for the ammunition plant. Today, the property is a city park for Charlestown. There are a few reminders still visible such as the swimming pool, which has been infilled with gravel, display plaques illustrating its past glory and namesake Rose Island Road near Prospect.

Glenwood Park closed in 1935, prior to the flood. Its land was developed into a

residential district with streets named Glenwood Court and Glenwood Park.

White City only lasted two years, from 1907 to 1909. Due to its much smaller size compared to its neighbor Fontaine Ferry (14 acres versus 64 acres), it couldn’t compete and struggled financially. It was sold in 1910 and renamed ‘Riverview Park.’ This successor met the same fate, closing prior to the 1913 season. A residential development was built there, with one of the streets named ‘Riverview Avenue.’

Fontaine Ferry had the longest run, 64 years, from 1905 to 1969. On opening day, May 4, 1969, vandals ransacked the park and robbed some of the staff and patrons. Fearing further damage, along with guests’ safety being compromised, management decided to immediately close it permanently. The park was sold and reopened as ‘Ghost Town on the River’ in 1972, but eventually closed after the 1975 season. The City of Louisville purchased

the property in 1981. The Fontaine Estates neighborhood was built in the late 1990s along with the Shawnee Sports Complex. Only the concrete foundations for the Comet roller coaster may still be visible as remnants of this fondly remembered vibrant location.

Louisvillians today can get their excitement locally at Kentucky Kingdom, located at the Fairgrounds, or drive two hours north on I-71 to Kings Island, or travel to Holiday World, which is just over an hour west on I-64. But ‘Shoot the Chutes’ and the wooden roller coasters of 100 years ago elicited just as many shrieks and thrills.

Steve Wiser is a local historian, author and architect.

ROAD TRIP READY

EIGHT NEARBY GETAWAYS WORTH THE DRIVE

If it’s time for a change of pace and something new, there are adventures just around the corner. If you’ve been sitting at home wondering what to do or where to go, consider a nearby road trip. If you’d like to get out of the house, dust off your shoulders and come back home with new trinkets for the kids, here are some trip ideas for you. Don’t worry — each location listed below is within a half-day drive of Louisville. Get ready to pull out a nice outfit, comfy shoes and a camera!

BARDSTOWN, KENTUCKY

You could start in Bardstown, a charming place steeped in engaging history. Visit the historic downtown area, try some bourbon and explore My Old Kentucky Home State Park. It’s the perfect spot to soak up some Kentucky charm. Don’t forget to catch the annual Kentucky Bourbon Festival in September, featuring bourbon tastings and live music.

HAZLETON, INDIANA

If you’re willing to skip a hop, beat and a jump over into Indiana, there’s a privately owned location you can visit for free: the awardwinning Azalea Path Arboretum and Botanical Garden. Located near Petersburg in Gibson and Pike counties, this scenic site is often used to host weddings and offers nature trails. It is open annually from April 1 through June 1 and is a premier Southern Indiana destination. It has been recommended to visit when the flowers are blooming at their peak. Be sure, once you’re on the paths, to scavenger hunt for a lake and a stone arch.

PADUCAH, KENTUCKY

Paducah is a hidden gem just waiting to be discovered. With its rich heritage and thriving arts scene, the city has a unique vibe that’s hard to find elsewhere. As a UNESCO Creative City, Paducah brings art, culture and heartwarming experiences to life.

Check out Hotel Metropolitan, a stunning historic hotel that has been restored to its former glory and now serves as a hub for creatives and travelers alike. As a key stop on the Chitlin’ Circuit, it hosted music legends like Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, B.B. King, Ella Fitzgerald and Tina Turner, and now operates as a museum.

Also be sure to stop by the Lloyd Tilghman House & Civil War Museum, located at 631 Kentucky Ave. in Paducah. This 1852 Greek Revival home served as the residence of Confederate Brig. Gen. Lloyd Tilghman from 1852 to 1861. Today, the site operates as a museum focusing on Western

Kentucky’s Civil War history.

Both spots are steeped in local legend and happen to be haunted. If you’re feeling brave, you might just catch a glimpse of a ghostly guest. Haunted Discoveries recently made a haunted discovery there that can soon be found on YouTube for free.

If you get the chance, stop in at the Paducah Quilt Show in April, featuring stunning quilts and live music.

LEXINGTON, KENTUCKY

Lexington is a vibrant city with a lot to offer. Explore the downtown area, visit the Kentucky Horse Park and take a bourbon tour with your loved ones. They’ll be sure to enjoy the charming shops and restaurants. You can catch the Kentucky Horse Show in August, featuring top-notch equestrian competitions.

CINCINNATI, OHIO

If given the chance, check out the Cincinnati Music Festival in July to enjoy good food, good vibes and live music.

One other recommendation is to visit the nearby aquarium and the adjacent popular courtyard area. If you have kids, they’ll love the train ride that passes through while you sip on a hot mocha or grab a bite to eat as you watch it roll by.

Cincinnati is a city with a lot of character. Don’t miss a visit to the Cincinnati Zoo. Explore the historic Over-the-Rhine neighborhood and try some famous Cincinnati chili. It’s a fun little skip and a jump from Louisville for a day trip.

Mammoth Cave is a natural wonder with breathtaking underground tours and aboveground hiking trails. Take a guided tour to explore the cave’s majestic chambers, book a canoe excursion or check out Dinosaur World.

If you catch it in time before summer is far behind, you can join the park’s annual Candlelight Tour in December for a unique winter experience.

RED RIVER GORGE, KENTUCKY

Red River Gorge is a nature lover’s paradise with scenic views, hiking trails and the iconic Sky Bridge. Explore the Daniel Boone National Forest and enjoy the stunning scenery.

Catch the Red River Gorge Festival in May, featuring live music and outdoor activities. Ask the locals about their favorite nearby pizza joint and they’ll likely all say the same thing. Plus, you’ll make some new friends.

CLARKSVILLE, TENNESSEE

Beyond its striking park-like setting, the cave stands out as one of the most important prehistoric sites in the Eastern Woodlands. People have visited Dunbar Cave for thousands of years, and its walls hold significant Mississippian Native American artwork from the 14th century.

Spanning 144 scenic acres, the park features hiking paths, wildlife-watching opportunities, picnic areas and guided cave tours during select seasons.

To the Mississippian communities who lived near the Red River in the 14th century, and possibly to others as well, Dunbar Cave was considered sacred ground. While it is a tangible place you can walk into, Mississippians saw it as a literal gateway to the Underworld, the realm believed to lie beneath our own. They left behind numerous images on the cave walls, some sketched in charcoal and others etched directly into the limestone.

Research shows that play is essential for your child’s development. It sparks curiosity, boosts motivation, and nurtures creativity. Through play, children explore, experiment, and develop key cognitive and emotional skills for lifelong success.

Join us at Providence CCPS to see how our professionally facilitated, play-based program for infants to prekindergarten can unlock your child’s full potential.

Call 502-267-4249 to schedule a tour or visit www.providenceccps.com to learn more.

We may not know the exact meaning behind every drawing, but those symbols still carry spiritual significance for many Indigenous peoples of the Southeast.

Clarksville was founded along the Cumberland River, and the waterways remain the heart of the community today. They make Clarksville a regional destination for water sports like boating, fishing, skiing, kayaking and canoeing.

Clarksville also offers plenty of petfriendly hotels, so bring Fido along if desired.

When at these locations, asking locals what’s new or what’s going on that day could be exactly what you’re looking for to create a unique, one-of-a-kind experience.

So go ahead — take a drive, book a room and find the key to your next adventure. Be sure to come back with a story!

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

1

CHICAGO

625 S. 4th Street

Louisville, KY

8 p.m.

Doors open at 7:00pm. All sales are final. No refunds or exchanges. Everyone, regardless of age including babes in arms, must purchase a ticket. Dates, times, prices and Artist are subject to change without notice. Be sure to check the venue website closer to your event date for the latest information. Use of personal cell phones for pictures are allowed at the discretion of the show. No Professional Cameras, Flash Photography, Audio or Video Recording of any kind are permitted.

3

RED NOT CHILI PEPPERS

611 S 4th Street

Louisville, KY

8 p.m.

The Mercury Ballroom is an all-ages, standing room venue, all tickets are General Admission unless otherwise stated. Doors open one hour prior to the event. Everyone, regardless of age including babes in arms, must purchase a ticket. Dates, times, prices and Artist are subject to change without notice. Personal cameras are allowed at the discretion of the artist. No Professional Cameras, Flash Photography, Audio or Video Recording of any kind are permitted. All sales are final. No refunds or exchanges.

AROUND THE COMMUNITY, 2026

JULY

SPOON & THE BETHS: US TOUR 2026 PRESENTED BY WFPK

1080 Amphitheater RD

Louisville, KY

7 p.m.

This is an ALL AGES event.

2

CRUISE-E-OKE

Louisville, KY

7 p.m.

You’ve tried karaoke… but have you tried Cruise-eoke? Grab your crew and hop onboard for a cruise that’s as entertaining as you are–because you are the entertainment. Get ready to leave your troubles behind and sing your heart out.

WILD LIGHTS AT THE LOUISVILLE ZOO 2026

Louisville, KY

7-10 p.m.

May 15 – July 26, 2026 Thursdays – Sundays only

Enter from 7–10 p.m. nightly. Route closes at 11:30 p.m.

This year’s festival debuts a brand-new collection of handcrafted Chinese lantern displays across four immersive themed realms: Magical Forest, Magical Ocean, Pre-Historic Animals, and Wondrous Asia. Brought to life with vibrant colors and larger-thanlife sculptures, nearly every spectacular display you’ll encounter in 2026 is completely new, ranging from glowing wildlife to mythic scenes. Tickets vary from $16 to $35.

4

WATERFRONT PARK FOURTH OF JULY

Waterfront Park TurfMutt Great Lawn 1101 E River Rd

Louisville, KY

5-10 p.m.

Join us at Waterfront Park on Saturday, July 4, for a festive celebration of our nation’s 250th birthday. Festivities begin at 5:00 PM with family-friendly activities and a live DJ and spectacular fireworks display over the Ohio River at 10:00 PM.

Event Schedule:

5:00 p.m. – Family activities and live DJ

5:00–8:30 p.m. – Kosair for Kids Children’s Area featuring family-friendly games and activities focused on science, music, art, and nature

10:00 p.m. – Fireworks over the Ohio River

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NATURALISTIC GARDENING

3033 Bardstown Road Louisville, KY

10 a.m.

Using Native Plants & Eco-Friendly Methods to Create a Sustainable Landscape/Garden that Pleases You & Critters Too!

KILLER QUEEN - A TRIBUTE TO QUEEN FT. PATRICK MYERS AS FREDDIE MERCURY

625 S. 4th Street

Louisville, KY

8 p.m.

Doors open at 7:00 p.m.. All sales are final. No refunds or exchanges. Everyone, regardless of age including babes in arms, must purchase a ticket. Dates, times, prices and Artist are subject to change without notice. Be sure to check the venue website closer to your event date for the latest information. Use of personal cell phones for pictures are allowed at the discretion of the show. No Professional Cameras, Flash Photography, Audio or Video Recording of any kind are permitted.

LOUISVILLE WATER TOWER & WATERWORKS MUSEUM OPEN DATE

3005 River Rd, Louisville, KY / Noon-5 p.m.

Explore 165 years of history at the Louisville Water Tower and WaterWorks Museum. Located inside the original 1860 pumping stations, public visits feature historic films, memorabilia, a giant steam engine, and tower tours. Visit the second Sunday of each month from noon–5 p.m. (tours start at 1 p.m.). Valid ID and credit card required.

16 RIVER TALES OVER COCKTAILS: “PIRATES, TREACHERY, BATTLES, AND ESCAPES”

5700 Captains Quarters Road Prospect, KY / 5 p.m.

History Cocktail Cruise aboard the CQ Princess

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

22

AN EVENING WITH BAND OF HORSES AND DINOSAUR JR.

1080 Amphitheater RD Louisville, KY / 8 p.m.

This is an ALL AGES event.

23

THE PARKLANDS WALKING CLUB (SYCAMORE TRAIL)

Marshall Playground and Sprayground Louisville, KY / 5:30 p.m.

Join the free Parklands Walking Club twice a month for leisurely, community-focused hikes, rain or shine. No registration is required. Morning sessions meet at 8:30 a.m. (starts 8:45 a.m.); evening sessions meet at 5:30 p.m. (starts 5:45 p.m.). Always check our website for weather alerts. Upcoming Hike: On July 23rd at 5:30 p.m., meet rangers at the PNC Achievement Center in Beckley Creek Park for a 1.3-mile round-trip walk along the dirt Sycamore Trail.

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NOTABLE LOUISVILLE WOMEN AND THE SUFFRAGE MOVEMENT GOLF CART TOUR

701 Baxter Ave. Louisville, KY / 10 a.m.

Some of the most prolific change in society can be attributed to the leadership of women. Contributions of these wonderful leaders range widely- from education, to suffrage-related causes, writing, and much more! As a matter of fact, much of the change brought about by the women in Cave Hill Cemetery impact us tremendously today. We invite you to come learn about these leaders in society during a walking tour with docent, Gwen Rogers.

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LOUISVILLE BATS VS. INDIANAPOLIS INDIANS

401 E Main St. / Louisville, KY

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WFPK WATERFRONT WEDNESDAY

Over the Rhine (with full band) Abby Hamilton, Young Artist Showcase winner (6:00 p.m.) 1101 River Road Louisville, KY

5 p.m.

91.9 WFPK Independent Louisville and Waterfront Park are delighted to announce the 24th season of WFPK Waterfront Wednesday. Proceeds from WFPK Waterfront Wednesday benefit two beloved local nonprofits, Louisville Public Media and Waterfront Park.

SWEET SUCCESS

CINNAHOLIC BRINGS CUSTOM TREATS TO LOUISVILLE

Sean and Dion Roberson liked going to Cinnaholic so much, they decided to open their own. While living in Atlanta, the husband-and-wife duo discovered the bakery known for its “create your own” cinnamon rolls and made it one of their go-to stops. After moving back to Louisville, they knew they had to bring the concept home.

“We are both from Louisville, born and raised,” Sean says. “We discovered Cinnaholic in Atlanta, and it became our number one dessert option. We always had the intention to move back to Louisville eventually. When we did, we wanted to bring this to where we are from so people can experience what we experienced. That was really our motivation. We wanted to bring Cinnaholic back home.”

Cinnaholic is a national franchise started in Berkeley, California, in 2010 that quickly became a local favorite and was even featured

Writer / Gavin LaPaille

on ABC’s “Shark Tank.” There are now more than 100 Cinnaholic locations spread out across the country, serving fresh-baked products that are 100% vegan while free of dairy, lactose, egg and cholesterol.

The menu includes a variety of frostings and toppings, all made with the highest-quality ingredients. Customers can design their own special cinnamon roll or choose from one of the selected signature rolls, which include Cookie Monster, Campfire S’mores, Caramel Apple Pie and the classic Old Skool Roll.

Sean says Cookie Monster, which features cream cheese frosting topped with homemade chocolate chip cookie dough, chocolate chips and chocolate sauce, is his personal favorite, with many new customers opting for the more traditional Old Skool Roll on their first visit.

“For most people, if it’s their first time coming in, the menu can get overwhelming seeing all the customizations and options,” Sean says. “Ultimately, they land on the Old Skool, which is just your basic cinnamon roll. Besides that, if someone wants something with toppings, they go with the Cookie Monster. It’s pretty rich, and it’s my favorite. I can see why people love it.”

Sean and Dion’s location is the first Cinnaholic in Kentucky and is in the heart of St. Matthews at 4204 Shelbyville Road near Hubbards Lane. Cinnaholic will also feature Sean’s other business venture, West Lou Coffee, with brownies, cookies and more also available.

“The St. Matthews area made sense because we are familiar with Shelbyville Road and the mall,” Sean says. “There’s a lot of people who live in that area and shop and eat. We wanted our first business to be in an area that is a destination for people who live in and around Louisville.”

The store had its grand opening in August, offering guests discounted $2 rolls, and has grown rapidly from there.

“Our grand opening was pretty wild,” Dion says. “We had a lot of things going on and some roadblocks we were able to work through. I want to give a shoutout to our customer base for coming out. They were all so supportive and nice during that time and allowed us grace as we ramped up with a brand-new team and concept. There was a lot that went into those first few weeks, and we still have had great reception. Now we have our regular customers who come for dietary needs. They either are vegan or plant-based or just can’t have dairy or lactose. It’s really been good to have this concept here for folks to enjoy regardless of their dietary restrictions.”

Cinnaholic wants its reach to go beyond its store. They also cater special events, and Dion says she hopes to grow that part of the business.

“We’ve done a few corporate events and weddings,” Dion says. “We try to make that experience exceptional for whatever the reason is. We work with our customers on what their needs are. We have options to deliver or do setup. We would love the opportunity to cater and spread the product to as many people as possible.”

Sean says he also sees an opportunity to visit customers who may have a harder time getting to the current physical location.

“We traveled to a few events last year, and it was eye-opening how many people showed up for us,” Sean says. “A lot of these people can’t get to St. Matthews as easily and are happy to see us and purchase items. It made me think we need to invest in a mobile way to get to more people.”

The couple says it took about a year for the concept to fully get off the ground, and they’ve already learned a great deal about the process and each other. Both want all of their customers to have a great experience when visiting.

“This should be a very fun establishment,” Dion says. “That’s probably been the biggest learning curve for me. While we are running a business, we need to ensure we’re having fun with the process so it’s a great experience for the customer from when they walk into the front door to when they leave.”

“We’re treating our customers how we like to be treated, and it’s showing up,” Sean says. “People are writing good reviews because we are making sure they are getting what they’re asking for. We can go above and beyond with giving them a smile and a greeting and knowing our frequent customers. If you just be yourself and are a good person, you can give great service to someone and they’ll come back.”

Cinnaholic is open Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and on Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. For more information on Cinnaholic, check out cinnaholic.com or call 502-365-4119.

Chenoweth Appliances is locally owned and operated by Danny & Wayne Lyons Our sales team: Steve Combs, Mark Cain, Rodney Kistner, Mary Kay Head and Kristen Lyons

HOME CUISINE, LOUISVILLE’S LOCAL & HEALTHY MEAL DELIVERY SERVICE, HAS BEEN PREPARING DELICIOUS, CHEF CRAFTED MEALS FOR ALMOST 20 YEARS.

Are you ready for the ease of fresh (never frozen) meals prepared with the finest LOCAL ingredients, delivered right to your front door? Pick between Classic, Paleo, Vegetarian or Keto meals; ready for you just hours after preparation. Sandy Pike (Former Owner of Jack Frys, Cafe Society, and The Queen of Tarts) Has been impressing Louisville with her recipes for 40+ years. Hop online and place your order today.

Expires 8/31/2026

Expires 8/31/2026

corey@townepost.com (502) 431-3037

At UofL Health – Medical Center East , we know sooner is better. That’s why we provide quick registration and a short ER wait time. Fast bedside triage, provider assessment, diagnostics and treatment mean less waiting and more focus on your care. And with the convenience of 24/7 emergency services, we’re nearby whenever you need us. It’s all part of our mission to provide world-class expertise that helps you get better, sooner.

For more information, call 502–259–6000 or visit UofLHealth.org.