One of the great things about traveling around all the time is that it's pushed me to appreciate where I am at all times. This past week, I've been visiting my hometown of Lexington, Kentucky. Usually when I'm here, I'll hang out with family and friends and lay low, but since I'm now in the habit of getting out and about to see the sights, I've been taking some time to act like a tourist in a place that I know very well.
This weekend, I toured McConnell Springs Nature Park, the birthplace of Lexington. Tucked away in a heavily industrial area of town, you might not notice this lush preserve unless you make a point to find it.
Back in 1775, frontiersman William McConnell had been camping here when he heard news of the American Revolution. In honor of the first battle which was fought in Lexington, Massachusetts, he named his camp Lexington. In the years following McConnell's temporary settlement near the Blue Hole, pictured at the top of the post, this site served as a dairy farm, a mill, a distillery, and even a gunpowder factory. By the beginning of the 20th century, McConnell Springs had become an all but a forgotten wasteland, a swampy sinkhole that was impossible to build on.
In 1993, Friends of McConnell Springs was founded to save the historic site. Together with the local parks department, they were able to successfully turn an industrial wasteland into a flourishing park, teeming with natural beauty and featuring an educational center that focuses on local history and nature alike.
More Info: McConnell Springs
(Images: Smith Schwartz)
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Is that blue-green water from the chemicals in the water?? (There is a spring in northern Michigan that is a bit like that, and always beautiful as well.)
The inclination to explore one's immediate surroundings, and the ability to discover new things there, is a gift. Reminds me of a Thoreau quote: "I have traveled extensively in Concord."
Hey, this is my home town too! Will definitely check this out next time I'm back visiting family. THANKS!
At Sherry: I think it's the minerals rather than "chemicals."
The colour of the water reminds me of the Plitvice Lakes in Croatia. Stunningly beautiful!
@SHERRYBINNH, the Blue Hole is so blue because of the mineral deposits from the limestone, also it's very deep which makes the color of the water more vibrant.
Yay! I live here!
I went to college in Lexington in the early 90's and LOVED visiting McConnell Springs. It always felt like a small wilderness . . . . ah, to be young and in college again.
So excited to see a post about Lexington and McConnel Springs! I grew up there and visited all the time. Thanks for making my day and helping me appreciate my hometown with this post!