Join us on June 16 to commemorate York, a key member of the Lewis and Clark expedition, and the enslaved Black servant to William Clark. A good portion of his life was spent at Mulberry Hill, the childhood home of Clark, now known as George Rogers Clark Park. We will gather at the Lodge of the park as part of the city’s Juneteenth celebration to pay tribute to this American explorer. There will be tours, talks, singing, and poetry readings with special guests; sculptor Ed Hamilton, poet Frank X Walker, Louisville Juneteenth Jubilee Commission member Dr. John Chenault, the Filson’s Jim Holmberg, Sankofa singers, and more. This free program is offered in partnership between the Frazier Kentucky History Museum, Filson Historical Society, Kentucky Center for African American Heritage, Roots101, Louisville Parks and Recreation, and the Louisville Juneteenth Jubilee Commission.
Rundown of Evening
6 p.m. Outside at picnic tables. The Filson’s Dr. Jackie Hudson introduces historian Jim Holmberg, who leads a tour of the park and highlights connections to York.
6:30 p.m. Inside the Lodge. Official welcome from the Frazier’s Rachel Platt with all partners. (Frazier, Filson, Roots 101, Kentucky Center for African American Heritage, Louisville Parks & Recreation, Juneteenth, and Louisville Public Media.)
Inside the Lodge. Mayor Craig Greenberg offers a greeting.
6:38 p.m. Inside the Lodge. Dr. John Chenault speaks about the importance of Juneteenth.
6:45 p.m. Inside the Lodge. The Frazier’s Mick Sullivan speaks on the importance of the park and introduces sculptor Ed Hamilton.
6:50–7:10 p.m. Inside the Lodge. Ed Hamilton talks about York.
7:10 p.m. Inside the Lodge. Rachel introduces Jessica Dawkins with Locust Grove for a special announcement on York.
7:15–7:30 p.m. Outside at picnic tables. Roots 101’s Lamont Collins introduces Sankofa singers.
7:30 p.m. Outside at picnic tables. KCAAH’s Aukram Burton introduces poet Frank X Walker.
7:30–8 p.m. Outside at picnic tables. Poet Frank X Walker performs.
8 p.m. Outside at picnic tables. The Filson’s Dr. Jackie Hudson introduces historian Jim Holmberg, who leads a second tour of the park.
8:30 p.m. Evening ends.
