Ashland KY - A trip to Billy's place of origin

July 28, 2013
 

Mural on Port Wall

One reason to traverse Kentucky was to visit Billy's childhood town  of Ashland where he lived until the age of 6.  The town is lovely, well preserved, and appears to be thriving with an active downtown.  Our first stop was Central Park which was delightful on a bright sunny Sunday morning. 

 

Central Park Fountain

People were gathering after church for cook-outs, children's laughter filled the air, and couples strolled the grounds.  The park honored the past by preserving Native American mounds and a pioneer house.

 
 

 
The city is balancing progress and the convenience of strip malls and big-box stores with preservation of the downtown.  It appears the effort is worthwhile in this small but active city.

The old and new views of Ashland captivated my interest.  It is a city in transition but learning how to balance the two.

 

Ashland has an active downtown even on a hot Sunday afternoon.

 

We stopped for an fantastic lunch at the Lamp Post Café.  Smoked Meatloaf, green beans, and broccoli casserole for me!

 
 After lunch we strolled along the port and the rail line which have direct access to the Ohio River. 

 

 

The town was originally a shipping town which grew rapidly after the discovery of oil and coal in the area.

 

I was suitably impressed with the efforts to preserve the past while incorporating the future always striving to provide social support for the citizens and beauty for the eye.