Lexington Colored Fair Association

Historical marker location:

Lexington, Kentucky

( 644 Georgetown St., Lexington)

Started in 1869 by the Lexington Colored Agricultural and Mechanical Assoc., the annual fair promoted racial achievement and offered entertainment which attracted thousands from Ky. and beyond. When located on Georgetown Pike, the site had an exhibition hall, amphitheatre, and racetrack.

(Reverse) Successful Enterprise - Though similar fairs were held statewide, Lexington's Colored Fair was most successful, lasting well into the 1930s. Fairs were as popular as Emancipation Day among the state's black citizens. Cash prizes were awarded winners in categories from livestock and racing to music and floral display. The fairs showed African American accomplishments since emancipation.

African American Lexington Reconstruction Era