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    Unforgettable Stories

    History...in their own words

    Kentucky is full of stories of African Americans who were explorers and pioneers. And stories of the modern-day pioneers who are preserving their legacies. Like Michael Morrow, a descendant of slaves who is spearheading efforts to tell these “necessary” stories. Renowned sculptor Ed Hamilton, who rose above his meager upbringing to find himself – and acceptance – through art. Yvonne Giles, known as “The Cemetery Lady,” who has devoted her life to identifying unknown souls buried in unmarked graves. Watch these trailblazers share their stories, in their own words.

    For more of the Untold to the Unforgettable, including trip ideas for planning your visit and exploring Kentucky's Civil Rights legacy, click here. 

    Featured Episodes

    Betty Dobson

    During the era of segregation, the Hotel Metropolitan in Paducah was a safe haven for traveling African Americans not welcome in lodging elsewhere. The hotel became known for hosting musical legends like Louis Armstrong, Ella Fitzgerald, Ray Charles and Billie Holliday. Walk through the same doors today to gain a better understanding of the struggles traveling African Americans faced, and learn how this welcoming place not only provided guests a bed, but also “a front door dignity” as Hotel Director Betty Dobson describes it.

    Amy Beisel

    African Americans are at the foundation of Kentucky’s thoroughbred racing industry, and you can hear their stories through a remarkable new “Black Horsemen of the Kentucky Turf” exhibit inside the International Museum of the Horse in Lexington. Catch this behind-the-scenes look at those who cared for the horses – and those who gained glory on the track as some of America’s first sports heroes.

    Lonnie Ali

    Hear unique insights into the life of a man known simply as “The Greatest” from the woman who knew him best: Muhammad Ali’s wife, Lonnie Ali. As she peels back the layers to help preserve her late husband’s legacy, listen as a woman of substance, intelligence and compassion in her own right tells her stories of love and perseverance – not just of the boxer, but of the man.

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    Series
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    Muhammad Ali Center

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    Freedom Singers

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    Camp Nelson National Monument

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    Rosenwald’s May’s Lick Negro School

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    Kentucky Derby Museum

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    Ed Hamilton

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    Mammoth Cave National Park

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    West Kentucky African American Heritage Museum

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    Oldham County Historical Society

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    African Cemetery No. 2

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    Shirley Mae Beard

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    Mattie Jones

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    Kentucky Historical Society

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