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
AUDACITY, ANTIQUITY and AI: The Vesuvius Challenge
This session will discuss the Vesuvius Challenge, an open-source software development competition in which the best and brightest minds in artificial intelligence (AI) took part in the audacious quest to virtually unwrap the Herculaneum scrolls. Christy will give us the untold story of the 20 plus years of research that proceeded it, which was full of obstacles, setbacks, and — audacity. Christy will provide a behind the scenes look at the contest and the work using computers to reveal the knowledge held in these precious ancient artifacts. It is a story that not only inspires due to the hi-tech successes, but also compels us to step out of risk-free zones and be audacious in the pursuit of our own goals and dreams.
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!