Stand With Us to Protect Central Kentucky’s History
Photo by Kevin Lane Dearinger
Preservation is Never Guaranteed
Together, We Can Protect Our Shared History
The Blue Grass Trust for Historic Preservation is leading one of its most urgent advocacy efforts in recent memory: defending Lexington’s historic East Maxwell corridor. For generations, these tree-lined streets have told the story of our city’s growth and resilience—but two blocks have already fallen to profit-driven development, and the fate of a third now hangs in the balance.
The forces threatening East Maxwell are not unique. Across Central Kentucky, historic neighborhoods and landmarks face growing pressure from short-sighted development. Left unchecked, we risk losing not only buildings, but the character and sense of place that make our region so special. Preservation has never been guaranteed—it requires vigilance, expertise, and a community willing to take a stand. That’s why the Blue Grass Trust is on the front lines, working with neighbors, raising awareness, and advocating for stronger protections. But we cannot do this work alone.
Your gift to the Blue Grass Trust Annual Fund gives us the means to respond swiftly and effectively when history is at risk.
Your support fuels our advocacy, strengthens our education programs, and protects the places that define who we are. Please consider a contribution to the Annual Fund this fall and stand with us in defense of East Maxwell—and every historic place that connects us to our shared story.
EDUCATION
Upcoming December 2025 deTour: Euphrasia Hall
Explore the Hidden History Beneath Second Street
Join us for our final in-person Blue Grass Trust deTour of the year as we visit Euphrasia Hall, now home to Isaiah House, Jubilee Jobs, Lexington Rescue Mission, Cuddles & Coo Diaper Pantry, and Micah Legal. Originally built as a dormitory for the nuns of St. Joseph Hospital, this storied building holds generations of Lexington’s history within its walls—and beneath them.
As part of this special evening, guests will have the rare opportunity to explore the tunnel running under Second Street, once used by the nuns to safely reach the hospital. Together, we’ll uncover the fascinating history of Euphrasia Hall and celebrate the building’s enduring legacy of compassion and community service. Don’t miss this unforgettable finale to our 2025 deTour season!
Wednesday, December 3
535 W. Second Street, Lexington, KY
6:00 PM
Free and open to the public!
November 2025 deTour Recap
Richard B. Isenhour Designed Home | Project 114 Allen
Our November deTour took guests inside a stunning 1971 mid-century modern home at 2025 Lakeside Drive, designed by celebrated Central Kentucky modernist Richard B. Isenhour. Known for his clean lines, open interiors, and seamless integration of indoor and outdoor spaces, Isenhour’s influence helped shape Lexington’s architectural identity.
The home, recently renovated by Heller Built Construction, offered a rare glimpse into how thoughtful restoration can honor original design while enhancing functionality for modern living. Attendees left inspired by the natural materials, intentional craftsmanship, and timeless vision that define Isenhour’s enduring legacy.
LEXTalks Lecture Recap
Estill Curtis Pennington on William Edward West
On October 30th, as part of the Lexington History Museum’s LEXTalks series, art historian Estill Curtis Pennington presented “Lord Byron’s Romantic Move to Hopemont”. In this engaging lecture, Pennington explored William Edward West’s portrait of Lord Byron, tracing the artist’s Kentucky roots and the influences that shaped his depiction of the famed Romantic poet. With characteristic warmth and wit, Pennington brought both history and art vividly to life, offering the audience a deeper appreciation for West’s contribution to Kentucky’s artistic legacy and his place in the broader story of nineteenth-century art.
ADVOCACY
Walk & Talk event co-hosted with Aylesford Action
Over the past several months, the Blue Grass Trust and the Aylesford Action community group have been tirelessly challenging the rezoning of E. Maxwell and Rose that would result in the construction of a gargantuan, 8-story private dormitory and the destruction of twelve National Register-listed properties. Thankfully, our efforts have paid off, as the City Council overwhelmingly voted to hold a public hearing on the rezoning that is scheduled for Wednesday, November 19th at 5PM (Government Center).
Lexington Residents: Please consider attending this hearing and contributing a three-minute public comment or contacting your councilmembers beforehand to signal your opposition to the rezoning. A list of talking points is available on the Advocacy page of our website. The Blue Grass Trust will also be hosting a virtual strategy session on Thursday, November 13th at 7PM on Google Meet. Please feel free to join us for that strategy session by clicking the link below.
If you are concerned about the rampant destruction of historic Aylesford, the loss of affordable housing in Lexington and resultant displacement, or private equity firms' manipulation of the local real estate sector, now is the time to speak up!
DIRECT SERVICES
Mayor Announces Surprise at Founder’s Day Event
Proclaims October 9th as Blue Grass Trust Day in Lexington
Members of the Blue Grass Trust recently gathered to celebrate 70 years of preservation at Hopemont, the very place where our story began. The evening was filled with wonderful memories—and a truly delightful surprise! We were deeply honored when Mayor Linda Gorton proclaimed October 9, 2025, as Blue Grass Trust Day in Lexington, recognizing seven decades of our shared work to protect the places that tell Kentucky’s story.
To our members, board, staff, and volunteers, thank you for making this milestone possible. Here’s to the next chapter of preserving, protecting, and promoting our historic places together!
Out in the Community
Kentucky Museum and Heritage Alliance Board Meeting
Blue Grass Trust Community Outreach Manager, Jackson Osborne, recently attended the Kentucky Museum and Heritage Alliance Board meeting in Paducah, connecting with history professionals from across the commonwealth. The meeting focused on supporting historical institutions statewide and planning the 2026 Kentucky Museum and Heritage Alliance conference in Paducah.
