Visit Locust Grove

Welcome to Locust Grove, a National Historic Landmark and your gateway to early Kentucky beginnings.

General Information

We are located at 561 Blankenbaker Lane, Louisville, KY 40207.

The grounds of Locust Grove are open from sunrise to sunset, with the Visitors’ Center open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Our Tours

Locust Grove offers a Guided House Tour and Unfolding the Story: The Enslaved Community At Locust Grove. Tickets for a tour can be purchased upon arrival or in advance here.

Guided House Tour:

Offered Tuesday through Saturday beginning at 10:30 a.m., 12 p.m., 1:30 p.m. and 3 p.m. We recommend arriving at least 15 minutes before your scheduled time for an optional viewing of a 12-minute introductory film in the Visitors' Center.

During the Guided House Tour, a docent will guide you through the place where Louisville began, exploring the lives of the Croghan and Clark families, the enslaved community and Locust Grove’s famous visitors during early frontier Kentucky. The Guided House Tour is generally between 60 and 90 minutes long.

Unfolding The Story: The Enslaved Community At Locust Grove

Unfolding The Story transports guests back in time to learn about the lives and stories of the enslaved community at Locust Grove. The immersive program addresses life in early Kentucky through the perspective of two members of Locust Grove’s enslaved community. Unfolding The Story is not focused on reenacting the traumatic experiences of the enslaved women, men and children who lived and worked at Locust Grove – but rather telling their stories in a way that justly depicts them as full human beings.

Unfolding the Story takes place inside on both stories of the historic house, and in and around the other historic outbuildings on our grounds. The experience is about 90 minutes of walking and standing, with some seating available. Regularly scheduled performances are offered biweekly on Saturday from April through October. Performances occur at 10 a.m. and 12 p.m.

PLEASE NOTE: Unfolding The Story takes place inside and outside the building on Locust Grove and involves walking and standing, sometimes on uneven ground. Locust Grove is committed to making our tours accessible to all. If you have concerns about accessibility, please call us at 502.897.9845 to discuss accommodations.

Unfolding The Story is a part of the Unfiltered Truth Collection with Louisville Tourism.

Frequently Asked Questions

DIRECTIONS

Admission

House Tours
$12 for adults
$10 for seniors
$6 for children (6-18 years old)

Unfolding the Story:
$18 for adults
$12 for seniors (65+)
$10 for children (6-18 years old)

Visitor’s Center Only: $6 for adults, $3 for children (6-18 years old)

Discounts are offered for Military, AAA, AARP and other organizations. Contact us to see if your organization applies. For groups of 10 or more, ask us about group rates and schedule your visit in advance.

Holiday Closures

We are closed to the public throughout the month of January, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve and the first Saturday in May for Kentucky Derby Day.  

From I-65

Take I-71 North. Continue on I-71, passing the I-64 split, and exit at Zorn Avenue. Turn left onto Zorn, taking care as you cross the median. Make a right turn onto River road at the light (Chevron Station on the corner). Turn right onto Blankenbaker Lane, approximately 6 miles from downtown Louisville, at the traffic light. You will proceed gradually uphill as you travel away from the river, and will find the entrance to the Locust Grove parking lot on your left, immediately past Twin Hill (on the right).

From Downtown Louisville

Take either the I-71 to Zorn Avenue route described above, or if you are already close to the riverfront, just take River Road all the way out to Blankenbaker Lane.

From points along the Watterson Expressway (I-264)

Take the Watterson eastward to the Brownsboro Road (U. S. 42) exit. At the end of the ramp, turn left and proceed to the third traffic light. Turn right onto Blankenbaker Lane. Locust Grove will come into view within about 1-1/2 miles, just as you crest a small ridge. Make a right turn into the parking lot, just after passing the historic house.

2024 Calendar of Events

04/03/2024
Serena and the Livingstons
Wednesday, 1:00pm - 3:00pm

Admission: $8/nonmembers; $6/Locust Grove members and students.
Schedule: Refreshments at 1:00 pm, lecture at 1:15 pm. 

Born into prestige, Serena Eliza Livingston's life unfolded in contrasts. Wed to Lt. Col. George Croghan, their Louisiana venture turned tumultuous. Amid business triumphs and personal tragedies, her journey unfolded against loss and perseverance. Discover the captivating legacy she left behind, intricately preserved at Historic Locust Grove, offering insights into her complex marriage to George Croghan.

Gwynne Tuell Potts is a historian, Louisville native, and the former executive director and former board president at Locust Grove. Her book, George Rogers Clark and William Croghan: A Story of the Revolution, Settlement, and Early Life at Locust Grove, has recently been published by the University Press of Kentucky. Potts is also the author, with the late Samuel W. Thomas, of an earlier book on Locust Grove and Clark.

04/16/2024
Sunset Yoga at Locust Grove
Tuesday, 6:30pm - 7:30pm


Welcome in Spring with Sunset Yoga event on April 16th. Surrounded by the soothing sounds of nature, join us for a rejuvenating yoga experience that welcomes Spring. Unwind and stretch in a serene setting, guided by experienced instructors from Studio Hustle. Whether you're a seasoned yogi or just beginning your journey, this session promises peace and balance. Experience the refreshing ambiance of spring, connect with your breathing, and let the tranquility sweep away the stress of the outside world. Don't miss this opportunity for a tranquil escape amidst the natural beauty of Locust Grove.

This donation-based class is in partnership with local business Studio Hustle. Click "Attend" to sign up!

04/18/2024
A Midsummer’s Nights Dream Performed by Kentucky Shakespeare
Thursday, 6:30pm - 8:00pm


Schedule: Doors open at 6:00 p.m. | Performance begins at 6:30 p.m.

Lose yourself in the enchanting world of Shakespeare's "A Midsummer Night's Dream" as performed by the mesmerizing talents of Kentucky Shakespeare. Enjoy this free performance underneath the stars at Locust Grove. Join us on April 18 for a magical evening filled with love, mischief, and the whimsy of the fairy kingdom. An unforgettable night of classical theatre awaits!

05/11/2024 - 05/12/2024
29th Annual Gardeners’ Fair
Saturday - Sunday, 10:00am - 4:30pm

Admission: $10/Adults | $5/Children 6-12 | Free/Children under 6
Discover a botanical wonderland at the 2024 Gardeners Fair hosted by Locust Grove. Immerse yourself in a vibrant tapestry of blossoming beauty and verdant foliage. Witness captivating demonstrations showcasing farm animals, gardening techniques, conservation efforts, and more. Beyond an event, the Gardeners' Fair celebrates nature's wonders and the passion of those who nurture it. Join us for a weekend of growth, inspiration, and the pure joy of all things botanical.

To learn more about the event or to become a vendor or sponsor click "Learn More".

05/11/2024 - 05/12/2024
29th Annual Gardeners’ Fair
Saturday - Sunday, 10:00am - 4:30pm

Admission: $10/Adults | $5/Children 6-12 | Free/Children under 6
Discover a botanical wonderland at the 2024 Gardeners Fair hosted by Locust Grove. Immerse yourself in a vibrant tapestry of blossoming beauty and verdant foliage. Witness captivating demonstrations showcasing farm animals, gardening techniques, conservation efforts, and more. Beyond an event, the Gardeners' Fair celebrates nature's wonders and the passion of those who nurture it. Join us for a weekend of growth, inspiration, and the pure joy of all things botanical.

To learn more about the event or to become a vendor or sponsor click "Learn More".

05/11/2024
Tea in the Gardens: Gardeners’ Fair Tea
Saturday, 11:30am - 3:30pm

Join Historic Locust Grove for TEA IN THE GARDENS, a high tea experience celebrating that special mother-figure in your life. Attendees will enjoy seasonal tea expressions and light fare in our garden quad overlooking the scenic annual Gardener's Fair. Two seating options are available, please RSVP today! Reserve your spot at this link !  

11:30 AM: British Garden Traditional Tea with Seasonal Fare - Sold out! (Join the Waitlist)

 

3:30 PM: Bourbon & Bubbles - Spirited Tea with Seasonal Fare (must be 21+ to attend).

  *Please note: After March 31st, Adult ticket prices will be $60*  

05/16/2024
America Uncorked: A Spirited Revolt
Thursday, 6:30pm - 8:00pm

Admission: $35/nonmembers; $27/Locust Grove members.
Schedule: Refreshments at 6:00 pm, concert at 6:30 pm. 

Join us as we welcome Author Brady Crytzer for May's America Uncorked. This month we explore the complexities of Whiskey Rebellion and its reverberations through the fledgling nation. Gain a deeper understanding of the struggles faced by both individuals and industries during this transformative period in American history. Don't miss this enlightening conversation that brings the past to life and highlights its relevance to our present-day society.

Brady J. Crytzer teaches history at Robert Morris University. He is the winner of the 2023 Judge Robert K. Woltz History Award. A specialist in the Imperial History of North America, Crytzer is a narrator and commentator on the hit cable series "Into the Wild Frontier" on INSP and "Lawmen and Outlaws" on Fox Nation. He has been featured on NBC Peacock, FOX Nation, and SiriusXM. He is the host of the weekly hit podcast "Dispatches: The Podcast of the Journal of the American Revolution." Crytzer is the host of the cable series Battlefield Pennsylvania on the Pennsylvania Cable Network, and the winner of the Donna J. McKee and Donald S. Kelly Awards for Outstanding Scholarship and Service in History. His work has been featured in The Washington Post, The Wall Street Journal, The Journal of the American Revolution, Pennsylvania Heritage, Game News, and Muzzleloader Magazine. His work has been reviewed in Publisher’s Weekly, Booklist, The Journal of Southern History, The Pennsylvania Magazine of History and Biography, and The Journal of Military History.

05/21/2024
Music Under the Pavilion: Keltricity
Tuesday, 6:00pm - 8:00pm


Schedule: Doors open at 6:00 p.m. | Performance begins at 6:30 p.m.

Join us for an enchanting evening that sets the stage for a season filled with mesmerizing sounds of Celtic Music. Our kickoff event begins with Keltricity, who will transport you to the heart of Celtic Culture, where soulful melodies and lively rhythms come together in perfect harmony. It’s an experience you won’t want to miss, and it’s just the beginning of a series that promises to be filled with music across all genres.

Gather your friends and family, bring a picnic, and join us as we embark on this musical journey through the lands of William Croghan’s childhood. Let the melodies of Ireland and Scotland sweep you away and set the tone for a season of unforgettable performances.

Keltricity is a Celtic-world band featuring traditional, contemporary and eclectic Celtic-influenced music from Ireland, Cape Breton, Scotland, England, Brittany, New England and French Canada.

06/02/2024
Emilie Strong Smith Chamber Music: The Three Bassets
Sunday, 5:00pm - 6:30pm

Admission: $22/nonmembers; $20/Locust Grove members.
Schedule: Refreshments at 5:00 pm, concert at 5:30 pm. 

The three Basset Horns are returning to Locust Grove to perform Mozart Operas in a way you've never experienced. No singers, no scenery, no acting-just pure music! Never attempted before anywhere by anyone!

Led by Locust Grove chamber musician Ernie Gross.

06/03/2024 - 06/08/2024
Artist in Residence – Jerome Bias
Monday - Saturday, 10:00am - 3:00pm

Jerome Bias Is a furniture maker and cultural heritage practitioner, specializing in the reproduction of 18th and 19th century Southern furniture using period techniques. He has been making furniture since 2000 and was the joiner for Old Salem Museum & Gardens from 2011-2016.
Bias has been studying the work of Thomas Day for the last twenty years. He has presented for the Renwick Gallery of the Smithsonian American Art Museum, Winterthur Museum, and The Museum of Early Southern Decorative Arts (MESDA). Graduating from the MESDA Summer Institute program and serving as the joiner for Old Salem, Bias has learned to see the building of furniture from a material culture perspective. Who built it? What was their life like? Bias has also worked with the Slave Dwelling Project. As the hearth cook during on-site programs, he learned to ask complicated questions, like what were the skill sets of enslaved tradespeople? How did they craft lives for themselves and their families while enslaved? Currently Bias currently makes reproductions of historic pieces of furniture from places through the country where his family was enslaved. Through this project he hopes to explore the question: how did his ancestors handle the trauma of enslavement and yet maintain the ability to have hope and love?

06/03/2024 - 06/08/2024
Artist in Residence – Jerome Bias
Monday - Saturday, 10:00am - 3:00pm

Jerome Bias Is a furniture maker and cultural heritage practitioner, specializing in the reproduction of 18th and 19th century Southern furniture using period techniques. He has been making furniture since 2000 and was the joiner for Old Salem Museum & Gardens from 2011-2016.
Bias has been studying the work of Thomas Day for the last twenty years. He has presented for the Renwick Gallery of the Smithsonian American Art Museum, Winterthur Museum, and The Museum of Early Southern Decorative Arts (MESDA). Graduating from the MESDA Summer Institute program and serving as the joiner for Old Salem, Bias has learned to see the building of furniture from a material culture perspective. Who built it? What was their life like? Bias has also worked with the Slave Dwelling Project. As the hearth cook during on-site programs, he learned to ask complicated questions, like what were the skill sets of enslaved tradespeople? How did they craft lives for themselves and their families while enslaved? Currently Bias currently makes reproductions of historic pieces of furniture from places through the country where his family was enslaved. Through this project he hopes to explore the question: how did his ancestors handle the trauma of enslavement and yet maintain the ability to have hope and love?

06/03/2024 - 06/08/2024
Artist in Residence – Jerome Bias
Monday - Saturday, 10:00am - 3:00pm

Jerome Bias Is a furniture maker and cultural heritage practitioner, specializing in the reproduction of 18th and 19th century Southern furniture using period techniques. He has been making furniture since 2000 and was the joiner for Old Salem Museum & Gardens from 2011-2016.
Bias has been studying the work of Thomas Day for the last twenty years. He has presented for the Renwick Gallery of the Smithsonian American Art Museum, Winterthur Museum, and The Museum of Early Southern Decorative Arts (MESDA). Graduating from the MESDA Summer Institute program and serving as the joiner for Old Salem, Bias has learned to see the building of furniture from a material culture perspective. Who built it? What was their life like? Bias has also worked with the Slave Dwelling Project. As the hearth cook during on-site programs, he learned to ask complicated questions, like what were the skill sets of enslaved tradespeople? How did they craft lives for themselves and their families while enslaved? Currently Bias currently makes reproductions of historic pieces of furniture from places through the country where his family was enslaved. Through this project he hopes to explore the question: how did his ancestors handle the trauma of enslavement and yet maintain the ability to have hope and love?

06/03/2024 - 06/08/2024
Artist in Residence – Jerome Bias
Monday - Saturday, 10:00am - 3:00pm

Jerome Bias Is a furniture maker and cultural heritage practitioner, specializing in the reproduction of 18th and 19th century Southern furniture using period techniques. He has been making furniture since 2000 and was the joiner for Old Salem Museum & Gardens from 2011-2016.
Bias has been studying the work of Thomas Day for the last twenty years. He has presented for the Renwick Gallery of the Smithsonian American Art Museum, Winterthur Museum, and The Museum of Early Southern Decorative Arts (MESDA). Graduating from the MESDA Summer Institute program and serving as the joiner for Old Salem, Bias has learned to see the building of furniture from a material culture perspective. Who built it? What was their life like? Bias has also worked with the Slave Dwelling Project. As the hearth cook during on-site programs, he learned to ask complicated questions, like what were the skill sets of enslaved tradespeople? How did they craft lives for themselves and their families while enslaved? Currently Bias currently makes reproductions of historic pieces of furniture from places through the country where his family was enslaved. Through this project he hopes to explore the question: how did his ancestors handle the trauma of enslavement and yet maintain the ability to have hope and love?

06/03/2024 - 06/08/2024
Artist in Residence – Jerome Bias
Monday - Saturday, 10:00am - 3:00pm

Jerome Bias Is a furniture maker and cultural heritage practitioner, specializing in the reproduction of 18th and 19th century Southern furniture using period techniques. He has been making furniture since 2000 and was the joiner for Old Salem Museum & Gardens from 2011-2016.
Bias has been studying the work of Thomas Day for the last twenty years. He has presented for the Renwick Gallery of the Smithsonian American Art Museum, Winterthur Museum, and The Museum of Early Southern Decorative Arts (MESDA). Graduating from the MESDA Summer Institute program and serving as the joiner for Old Salem, Bias has learned to see the building of furniture from a material culture perspective. Who built it? What was their life like? Bias has also worked with the Slave Dwelling Project. As the hearth cook during on-site programs, he learned to ask complicated questions, like what were the skill sets of enslaved tradespeople? How did they craft lives for themselves and their families while enslaved? Currently Bias currently makes reproductions of historic pieces of furniture from places through the country where his family was enslaved. Through this project he hopes to explore the question: how did his ancestors handle the trauma of enslavement and yet maintain the ability to have hope and love?

06/03/2024 - 06/08/2024
Artist in Residence – Jerome Bias
Monday - Saturday, 10:00am - 3:00pm

Jerome Bias Is a furniture maker and cultural heritage practitioner, specializing in the reproduction of 18th and 19th century Southern furniture using period techniques. He has been making furniture since 2000 and was the joiner for Old Salem Museum & Gardens from 2011-2016.
Bias has been studying the work of Thomas Day for the last twenty years. He has presented for the Renwick Gallery of the Smithsonian American Art Museum, Winterthur Museum, and The Museum of Early Southern Decorative Arts (MESDA). Graduating from the MESDA Summer Institute program and serving as the joiner for Old Salem, Bias has learned to see the building of furniture from a material culture perspective. Who built it? What was their life like? Bias has also worked with the Slave Dwelling Project. As the hearth cook during on-site programs, he learned to ask complicated questions, like what were the skill sets of enslaved tradespeople? How did they craft lives for themselves and their families while enslaved? Currently Bias currently makes reproductions of historic pieces of furniture from places through the country where his family was enslaved. Through this project he hopes to explore the question: how did his ancestors handle the trauma of enslavement and yet maintain the ability to have hope and love?

06/18/2024
Sunset Yoga at Locust Grove
Tuesday, 6:30pm - 7:30pm


Enjoy the weather and landscape during Sunset Yoga on June 16th. Immerse yourself in the soothing sounds of nature and join us for an experience that embraces the first heat of Summer. Guided by experienced instructors from Studio Hustle, unwind and stretch in a serene park setting. This class is open to all experience levels. Experience the refreshing ambiance of spring, connect with your breathing, and let the tranquility sweep away the stress of the outside world. Don't miss this opportunity for a summer escape amidst the natural beauty of Locust Grove.

This donation-based class is in partnership with local business Studio Hustle. Click "Attend" to sign up!

06/30/2024
Antiques Market
Sunday, 10:00am - 4:30pm

Admission: $10/adults, free for under 18 years of age
Check out the treasures at the Antiques Market! From delicate china teapots to silver spoons, vintage jewelry to Kentucky-made chairs—there’s something for all tastes and every budget. Featuring dozens of professional dealers from around the region, the Antiques Market offers fine and country furniture, books, textiles, jewelry, ephemera, silver, and more. Admission includes the historic house museum beginning at 1:00pm. Food & drink available. Event organizer: Eric Lausch, viwalkersilver@yahoo.com.

07/04/2024
4th of July: Summer on the Farm
Thursday, 10:00am - 5:00pm

Admission: FREE
This is Locust Grove's Cultural Pass offering through the Fund for the Arts.

Gather your family and join us this 4th of July at Locust Grove for a FREE fun-filled day of learning and celebration! Explore what it means to be an active citizen and how to make a difference in your community through exciting activities and interactive discussions. Join StageOne Storytellers as they read stories of citizenship, civics, voting, and much more! Delve into the meaning of independence while reflecting on the history of the Revolutionary War and enslavement at our historic site. Engage with our community partners, enjoy family activities, and learn about the meaning of civic engagement together at Locust Grove.

08/22/2024 - 08/25/2024
Summer Book Sale
Thursday - Sunday, 10:00am - 5:00pm

MEMBER PREVIEW: August 22 | 10AM to 7PM
GENERAL SALE: August 23-26 | 10AM to 4:30PM

Used, antiquarian, and new books at all prices, all categories, including travel, science, cookbooks, fiction, history, literature, children's, reference, and more! With books at reasonable prices, you are sure to find a new treasure to add to your bookshelf. Prices start at $1 for paperbacks and $2 for hardcovers, with a special section of finer books that are individually priced. Proceeds support the educational and preservation programs of Locust Grove.

08/22/2024 - 08/25/2024
Summer Book Sale
Thursday - Sunday, 10:00am - 5:00pm

MEMBER PREVIEW: August 22 | 10AM to 7PM
GENERAL SALE: August 23-26 | 10AM to 4:30PM

Used, antiquarian, and new books at all prices, all categories, including travel, science, cookbooks, fiction, history, literature, children's, reference, and more! With books at reasonable prices, you are sure to find a new treasure to add to your bookshelf. Prices start at $1 for paperbacks and $2 for hardcovers, with a special section of finer books that are individually priced. Proceeds support the educational and preservation programs of Locust Grove.

08/22/2024 - 08/25/2024
Summer Book Sale
Thursday - Sunday, 10:00am - 5:00pm

MEMBER PREVIEW: August 22 | 10AM to 7PM
GENERAL SALE: August 23-26 | 10AM to 4:30PM

Used, antiquarian, and new books at all prices, all categories, including travel, science, cookbooks, fiction, history, literature, children's, reference, and more! With books at reasonable prices, you are sure to find a new treasure to add to your bookshelf. Prices start at $1 for paperbacks and $2 for hardcovers, with a special section of finer books that are individually priced. Proceeds support the educational and preservation programs of Locust Grove.

08/22/2024 - 08/25/2024
Summer Book Sale
Thursday - Sunday, 10:00am - 5:00pm

MEMBER PREVIEW: August 22 | 10AM to 7PM
GENERAL SALE: August 23-26 | 10AM to 4:30PM

Used, antiquarian, and new books at all prices, all categories, including travel, science, cookbooks, fiction, history, literature, children's, reference, and more! With books at reasonable prices, you are sure to find a new treasure to add to your bookshelf. Prices start at $1 for paperbacks and $2 for hardcovers, with a special section of finer books that are individually priced. Proceeds support the educational and preservation programs of Locust Grove.

09/04/2024
Afternoon Lecture: Treaties, Expansion, & The NW Territory from the Indigenous Perspective
Wednesday, 1:00pm - 3:00pm

Admission: $8/nonmembers; $6/Locust Grove members.
Schedule: Refreshments at 1:00 pm, lecture at 1:15 pm. 

09/29/2024
Antiques Market
Sunday, 10:00am - 4:30pm

Admission: $10/adults, free for under 18 years of age
Check out the treasures at the Antiques Market! From delicate china teapots to silver spoons, vintage jewelry to Kentucky-made chairs—there’s something for all tastes and every budget. Featuring dozens of professional dealers from around the region, the Antiques Market offers fine and country furniture, books, textiles, jewelry, ephemera, silver, and more. Admission includes the historic house museum beginning at 1:00pm. Food & drink available. Event organizer: Eric Lausch, viwalkersilver@yahoo.com.

10/02/2024
Afternoon Lecture: Kentucky Unsettled
Wednesday, 1:00pm - 3:00pm

Admission: $8/nonmembers; $6/Locust Grove members.
Schedule: Refreshments at 1:00 pm, lecture at 1:15 pm. 

In the aftermath of the French and Indian War, the Proclamation of 1763 marked the land that became Kentucky as Indian Reserve. However, a surge of settlers, enticed by land speculators, disrupted this balance. Colonial officials couldn't control the influx of settlers eager to claim the territory, leading to land disputes and coercive treaties that reshaped Kentucky's landscape. Explore the nuanced history of Indigenous displacement in Kentucky as we delve into the impact of coercive treaties, encroaching settlements, and the erosion of Native lifeways during the late 18th century. This talk will explore concepts of colonialism, property ownership, and sovereignty.

Kelly Hyberger is the Native American Collections Specialist at the Filson Historical Society in Louisville, Kentucky and previously worked as the Director of Cultural Resources at the Museum of Us and as the Curator of Collections at the Frazier History Museum. Her tenure in the non-profit sector is focused on decolonial praxis in museum collections, the repatriation of Indigenous cultural heritage items, and methods for centering authentic, diverse narratives of US History in education and interpretation. Kelly holds a master’s in history, a master’s in teaching, and a bachelor’s in political science from the University of Louisville. She has spoken domestically/internationally about the importance of decolonial stewardship and repatriation.

11/06/2024
Afternoon Lecture: An Early Louisville Murder: The Killing of Joseph Frederick at Oxmoor Farm
Wednesday, 1:00pm - 3:00pm

Admission: $8/nonmembers; $6/Locust Grove members.
Schedule: Refreshments at 1:00 pm, lecture at 1:15 pm. 

In 1816 Armistead Churchill knocked on the cabin of Joseph Frederick who was working as the overseer at Oxmoor Farm. When Frederick opened the door Churchill shot him dead. The reason for the murder includes treatment of the enslaved people at Oxmoor Farm, and a jockeying for control of Oxmoor. Churchill went to trial in 1817 and was defended by John Rowan and Benjamin Hardin. This trial would drive a wedge between these early Kentucky families and even lead to a challenge to duel! Come hear how this early Kentucky murder trial ended and the ramifications it had for these early Kentucky families.

Shirley Harmon manages the day-to-day operation of the Historic Oxmoor Farm, the Bullitt family home since 1787. Shirley has 25 years’ experience in the field of archives and historic home management. During her college years she worked as a docent at Farmington Historic Home and a fact checker for the Louisville Encyclopedia. In 2009 she was appointed a member of the Lincoln Bicentennial Committee, which planned events in the Louisville area for the celebration of Lincoln’s 200th birthday. She worked at the Filson Historical Society from 1999-2006 and again from 2011-2012 where her main focus was cataloging the Bullitt Family Papers. Shirley has been the archivist for Norton Healthcare since 2002. She is a member of Phi Alpha Theta, The Society of American Archivists, American Association of State and Local History, the Interpretations Committee for Farmington Historic Home, and the Oxmoor Preservation Committee.

Shirley earned her bachelor’s degree in History at Xavier University, and her master’s degree in History at the University of Louisville.

Please click the calendar on the left for individual event information.