The Legacy of York

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.

ABOUT THE PROGRAM

The Legacy of York
Tuesday, June 16, 2026
6–8:30 p.m.

George Rogers Clark Park
1024 Thruston Ave.
(Enter by Tennis Courts)

Admission: Free (no RSVP required)

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. The Frazier’s Mick Sullivan introduces audience to the park and connections to York.
· 6:35 p.m. Inside the Lodge. Dr. John Chenault speaks about the importance of Juneteenth.
· 6:40 p.m. Inside the Lodge. The Frazier’s Rachel Platt introduces sculptor Ed Hamilton.
· 6:45 to 7:15 p.m. Inside the Lodge. Ed Hamilton talks about York.
· 7:15 to 7:30 p.m. Outside at picnic tables. Roots101’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 to 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.