Welcome to McConnell Springs Park, the site of the founding/naming of Lexington, KY. Few large American cities can still point to the specific geographic site of their origin. But, thanks to a visionary partnership between Lexington civic leaders and businesses, and the willing support of hundreds of volunteers, the founding site of Lexington has been reclaimed and preserved for the future.
This site is sponsored by the Friends of McConnell Springs. We are a non-profit organization that works closely with the park. We provide funding, volunteers and guidance from our Board for several events and other park features. Join us in support of our park!
History To Chew On Series
History of Gratz Park
Speaker: Jeremy Popkin
Over the more than two centuries since it was designated as an open space in the heart of historic Lexington, Gratz Park has filled many roles. Originally intended as the site of Transylvania University, it has been a home to some of the city’s wealthiest residents, a military encampment, a bastion of racial segregation, the longtime home of Lexington’s public library, the inspiration for the city’s first historic preservation movement, and an attraction for both tourists and ghosts. UK professor Jeremy Popkin’s talk will explore the long history of Gratz Park and show how it illuminates larger aspects of our city’s past.
Seating is limited so come early! Also overflow parking is available in the C & R Asphalt parking lot adjacent to McConnell Springs parking lot. Those who don’t come early may have to sit outside.
Roots for Remembrance
The Friends of McConnell Springs and Lexington Parks & Recreation are pleased to present Roots for Remembrance. This program is an opportunity for the public to have a tree planted in memory of or in honor of someone at McConnell Springs, while also helping to improve the diversity of trees in the park. After your donation has been received, a tree will be planted within one of the Roots for Remembrance Plots at McConnell Springs. The Honoree or donor will be notified of the species of tree and the plot in which it was planted. Names of Honorees will be displayed on the Friends of McConnell Springs website and also in the Activity Center. Individual trees will not have a plaque displayed with them in the park. Trees will be planted by park staff and volunteers regularly and will be maintained through watering, weeding, and mulching until they are established. All trees planted will be a native species that will be locally sourced, and species will vary based on location to be planted in the park and availability. Click here for more information.
Purchase your T-shirt!
Purchase your McConnell Springs T-shirt for $15 by contacting the Friends at: Friends@mcconnellsprings.org.
Indicate in your email the size(s), the number of each size requested and your telephone number. Your payment is due at the time you pick up your t-shirt at the park. The Friends will contact you when your order is ready.
Consider a Paver
Purchase a paver for $100 by contacting the Friends at: Friends@mcconnellsprings.org. Check out the newsletter for space limitations.
Learn the History of the Springs!