Those attending Ashland the Henry Clay Estate’s conference on Monday, Feb. 3, got a look at the estate’s new exhibit for Black History Month.
The exhibit and tour, titled “When Reason Sleeps, Brutality Walks Free” features a number of contemporary art pieces made by local artists focusing on Black history and tells the stories of enslaved people and African American employees who lived in Ashland from before and after the Civil War.
Urban County Councilman James Brown said the tour offers an opportunity to share Black History in an open and honest way.
“All history is not good history, but it’s the truth. I think that’s what people want to hear and that’s what people want to know,” Brown said. “I think (Ashland) is really trying to be truthful about the history. Share it in a way that’s not just sad and depressing … but also empowering and uplifting.”
The Ashland Estate also unveiled a rendering of a future memorial called “The Breath of My Ancestors.” The memorial is a seven-foot-tall statue depicting Charlotte Dupuy, an enslaved housekeeper who worked at the estate and unsuccessfully sued Henry clay for her freedom.
“It’s a strong piece, the historical images that are woven into it and the strong Black female figure … I think this piece speaks for itself, that’s what we need at this time and juncture,” Brown said.
Funds for the statue are still being raised. The goal is to have it on display at the estate in Spring 2026.
The new tour is being offered every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday at 11:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. Ticket information can be found on the estate’s website.
Admission will be free on Monday, February 17, though there are a limited number of spots open for reservation.
A special open house will also be held on Monday, February 22. The African American Genealogical Society of Kentucky and the Fayette County Clerk’s Digital Access Project will be there to discuss methods of researching family history.