(The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, Cincinnati)

February marks Black History Month, a time to reflect on and honor the remarkable contributions of African Americans to culture, politics, science, and the arts. For seniors living in Ohio and Kentucky, this is a wonderful opportunity to immerse themselves in the history and heritage of the African-American community through events, exhibits, and historical landmarks. In cities like Cincinnati and Louisville, there are plenty of ways to celebrate Black History Month and enrich your understanding of this important history.

Black History in Cincinnati: A City Steeped in Legacy

Cincinnati, Ohio, holds a significant place in African-American history, particularly with its proximity to the Underground Railroad. It was a vital stop for escaping slaves making their way north to freedom. The city's unique position across the Ohio River from Kentucky meant that many enslaved individuals crossed the river and found refuge in Cincinnati. As a result, the Queen City is home to numerous historical landmarks, museums, and events that celebrate the contributions of Black Americans. Here are some key places to explore:

National Underground Railroad Freedom Center

Opened in 2004, the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center serves as a powerful reminder of the struggles faced by African Americans seeking freedom during slavery. The museum is located at The Banks, directly facing the Ohio River, which historically marked the boundary between slave and free states. The exhibits focus on the abolition of slavery, the Underground Railroad, and human rights issues across the globe.

Throughout the month of February, the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center hosts a variety of activities to honor Black History Month. One notable exhibit, Emmett Till & Mamie Till-Mobley: Let the World See, is available from 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Wednesday- Sunday. This powerful display details the tragic story of 14-year-old Emmett Till's murder in 1955 and his mother's brave actions that ignited a national call for justice. The exhibit runs through April 6, 2025.

The Harriet Beecher Stowe House

In Walnut Hills, the Harriet Beecher Stowe House offers a glimpse into the life of the author of Uncle Tom's Cabin. The house, which was home to Stowe in the 1830s when her father served as president of Lane Theological Seminary, is now open for tours on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. The house has been preserved as a historical site and stands as a testament to the abolitionist movement.

In addition to the house tour, visitors can also enjoy a walking tour that highlights the rich Black history of the Walnut Hills neighborhood. This tour provides a deeper understanding of the area's significant role in African American heritage, showcasing key sites and stories that have shaped its vibrant history.

For those interested in celebrating Black History Month while supporting local businesses, the Harriet Beecher Stowe House will host a Black History Month Pop-Up Shop on Sunday, February 23rd from 12–4 p.m. Admission is $5 at the door, and the event will feature ten local vendors offering a wide range of goods, services, clothing, accessories, wellness products, books, and more. It’s the perfect opportunity to shop, explore, and celebrate the contributions of local entrepreneurs in the Black community. Want to join the tour as well? Book a tour and make an afternoon of it!

The John P. Parker House

Also in Ripley stands the home of another famous abolitionist — that of John P. Parker, a former slave who escaped north to become an inventor, industrialist, and a conductor on the Underground Railroad. Parker, with his compatriot Rankin and a network of others, helped many slaves escape from the South.

After the Civil War, he patented the Parker tobacco press and the harrow — a piece of equipment still in use in some form on virtually every American farm today. In 1890, he built the Phoenix Foundry, following a fire that destroyed his Ripley blacksmith shop. The Phoenix Foundry was, at the time, one of the largest ironworks in the rapidly industrializing Ohio Valley.

Parker lived in his Ripley home from 1853 to his death in 1900. The home was added to the National Register in 1980 and was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1997.

The Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame and Museum

In celebration of Black History Month, the Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame and Museum offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the powerful history of African Americans in baseball. With a self-guided tour, you’ll dive into exhibits that showcase the groundbreaking achievements of African American athletes who made lasting impacts on the game. From the trailblazing contributions of Jackie Robinson and the legendary accomplishments of players like Frank Robinson and the first African American to play for the Reds, Nat Goodwin, you’ll learn about the challenges, triumphs, and cultural shifts these players experienced on and off the field. The museum also highlights key milestones in the integration of professional baseball, demonstrating how these athletes reshaped the sport's legacy. 

Celebrating in Louisville,Kentucky 

Louisville, also has rich connections to Black history, offering various ways for seniors to learn, engage, and celebrate throughout Black History Month. Below are just a few examples of activities and events that are perfect for seniors seeking to learn more about the African-American experience in Louisville:

The Muhammed Ali Center 

Located in downtown Louisville, the Muhammad Ali Center honors the life and legacy of the legendary boxer and civil rights activist, Muhammad Ali. The center offers engaging exhibits that highlight Ali’s career, his humanitarian efforts, and his enduring impact on society. Seniors can enjoy interactive displays, films, and memorabilia that reflect his achievements both inside and outside the ring.

In celebration of Black History Month, the Muhammad Ali Center invites you to a transformative event, Compassion in Action: The Journey to Greatness, on Thursday, February 27, 2025, from 8:30 to 10 A.M. This special program will bring together Louisville leaders, change makers, and visionaries to explore practical solutions for fostering compassion in our communities, nation, and the world. Inspired by Muhammad Ali’s legacy as a global humanitarian and champion, the event aims to reflect on the past, embrace the present, and shape a compassionate future, where greatness is defined by the good we do for one another.

The Kentucky Derby Museum  

While the Kentucky Derby is widely known, the Kentucky Derby Museum also delves into the history of Black jockeys, trainers, and owners who played a crucial role in the early years of the race. The museum often hosts special programs and exhibits that celebrate African-American participation in the sport, providing an insightful look at Kentucky's cultural heritage.

The Kentucky Center for the Performing Arts: Broken Wings Still Fly 

Put on by The (Un)known Project in partnership with Kentucky Performing Arts, "Broken Wings Still Fly" is a series of monologues inspired by the untold stories of enslaved women in Kentucky. Experience their strength, resilience, and triumph through narratives of love, motherhood, heartbreak, and enduring perseverance.

The performances will take place on February 28 at 7:30 p.m. and March 1 at 2 p.m. The show is recommended for ages 12 and older, with tickets starting at $35.10. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit thekentuckycenter.org.

Black History Month Experience at Episcopal Church Home 

Join us at Episcopal Church Home in Louisville throughout the month of February as we come together to honor and celebrate African American heritage in our community. We’re hosting four special events that highlight the rich history, culture, and contributions of the Black community. We invite you to join us in honoring this legacy! Here’s a glimpse of what’s happening:

Celebration of Legacy – Saturday, February 8, 2025 at 2:00 p.m.
A community gathering where we honor the achievements and contributions of African Americans in our local and national history. The event will feature music, storytelling, and a reflection on the importance of heritage.

Spoken Word and Poetry Night – Friday, February 14, 2025 at 7:00 p.m.
An evening of powerful spoken word and poetry performances by local artists, celebrating the strength and resilience of the African American experience.

Black History Month Art Showcase – Tuesday, February 18, 2025 at 6:00 p.m.
An art exhibition featuring works by local African American artists. Explore the creativity, history, and cultural expressions that shape our community.

Cultural Music & Dance Performance – Friday, February 21, 2025 at 6:30 p.m.
A vibrant performance celebrating African American music and dance traditions, featuring local musicians and dancers who bring our history to life through rhythm and movement.

There are plenty of opportunities for seniors living in Ohio and Kentucky to observe Black History Month.

For those living in Ohio and Kentucky, Black History Month provides an important opportunity to reflect on the enduring struggles and achievements of African Americans throughout history. Whether exploring historical landmarks, engaging in special programming, or learning from local community leaders, there is no shortage of ways to celebrate this important time of year. As you reflect on the sacrifices made by those who fought for freedom, equality, and justice, take a moment to celebrate their contributions and the vibrant legacy of African-American culture in both Ohio and Kentucky.