Growing up as a young Black girl in Kentucky, I and many other little girls and boys always heard heroic stories of those notable Black women and men that came before us, the ones that allowed us to live the life that we have now. Honestly there are so many of these leaders it would take hours to name them all and give them the justice they deserve, but many places in Kentucky are trying. One such place is Shelby County with The Kentucky Black Trailblazers Experience, which showcases select stories of local heroes. These black heroes include: Whitney M. Young Jr., Elijah P. Marrs, and Harlem Hellfighters.
You truly have to see these leaders come to life in cutting-edge augmented reality technology. It is honestly like they are standing right in front of you. “The Kentucky Black Trailblazers is a transformative, first-of-its-kind experience that celebrates the influential Black figures who shaped the history of the Commonwealth and beyond.”
Whitney M. Young Jr.
Located at Fred Wiche Park – 7012-7022 US-60, Simpsonville, KY 40067
“Whitney M. Young Jr., a pivotal civil rights leader born on July 31, 1921, in Simpsonville, Kentucky, played a key role in the fight for racial equality in America. As the head of the National Urban League from 1961 until his untimely death in 1971, Young worked tirelessly to dismantle employment discrimination and improve government services for Black Americans.”
Elijah P. Marrs
Located at Veterans Memorial Park – 514 5th St, Shelbyville, KY 40065
“Elijah P. Marrs was born into slavery in Kentucky in 1840, but his determination and resilience would lead him to become a key figure in African American history. During the Civil War, Marrs rallied 27 other African Americans to join the Union Army, enlisting in the 12th Regiment of the U.S. Colored Heavy Artillery. His literacy earned him a promotion to Sergeant and his service at Camp Nelson, Kentucky, was marked by significant assignments…….After the war, Marrs became a pioneering educator and clergyman, establishing one of the first black schools in Shelby County and co-founding the Kentucky Normal and Theological Institute, later known as Simmons College. ”
Harlem Hellfighters
Located at the Calvary Cemetery – 7th St, Shelbyville, KY 40065
“The Harlem Hellfighters were a remarkable African American combat unit during World War I, officially known as the 369th Infantry Regiment. They broke the mold by serving 191 days on the frontline – more than any other American unit – despite the racial segregation that permeated the US Army at the time. Among their ranks were brave men from various backgrounds, including Kentuckians who fought with valor: Pvt. Bradley Logan, Pvt. Leonard Todd, Pvt. Robert Wooten, Pvt. Bert Beckham, and Pvt. Ionia Harris, all of Shelbyville.”
All these experiences are so moving, educational, and much needed. As a Black woman I know that sharing these stories of our fearless leaders allows them to live on for future generations. I personally cannot wait to see and hear the rest of these stories of strength and resilience.
Continue the experience in Bardstown – Nelson County, Louisville, Elizabethtown – Hardin County, Shepherdsville – Bullitt County, Oldham County
“The Kentucky Black Trailblazers Experience showcases select stories of our local heroes and is not an exhaustive list of all Kentucky Black History sites or examples. This experience offers a curated selection of influential individuals, encouraging further exploration beyond what is presented. Join us in acknowledging these narratives as a starting point for discovering the rich tapestry of Kentucky’s Black history.”
Find more info about the Kentucky Black Trailblazers Experience here: https://kentuckyblacktrailblazers.com/
