When people think about American history, they often picture famous landmarks in Boston, Philadelphia or Washington, D.C. But some of the nation's most fascinating stories can be found much closer to home.
During a recent appearance on FOX19 NOW's "Field Trip Friday: Road to 250," anchor Jordan Vilines talked with Kenton County Public Library Executive Director Dave Schroeder about how Northern Kentucky's past connects directly to the story of America and celebration of its 250th birthday.
"Some of us who have been there a long time remember the 200th," Schroeder joked during the interview. "This is really exciting for us to be able to talk about American history and our place in American history as a region."
That history is all around us.
Standing in Devou Park with the Ohio River and Cincinnati skyline behind him, Schroeder noted that before the early 1900s, the land was a private family estate. Today, it is one of Northern Kentucky's most treasured public spaces, serving thousands of visitors each year. It's a reminder that history isn't something locked away in textbooks. It's woven into the places we visit, the buildings we pass and the communities we call home.
As America approaches its semiquincentennial, or 250th anniversary, Kenton County Public Library is helping residents discover those connections through programs, events and local history resources.
The library's History and Genealogy Department preserves thousands of photographs, documents and records that tell the story of Northern Kentucky. Researchers, students and curious residents can explore family histories, neighborhood stories and the people who helped shape the region.
Throughout the summer and the rest of this year, the library will also host special America 250 programs designed to bring history to life for all ages. Upcoming events include opportunities to meet historical figures, learn about the founding of the nation and explore Northern Kentucky's role in the American story.
"Whenever I'm traveling through Northern Kentucky, I can always find something that reminds me of the past," FOX19's Jordan Vilines said during the interview. "It's so important because our past influences current day and our future."
That's one of the goals behind America 250, understanding how history continues to shape our communities today.
Whether you're researching your family tree, exploring local landmarks or introducing your children to the stories that built our nation, Kenton County Public Library offers countless ways to connect with the past.
After all, Northern Kentucky's story is America's story.
Upcoming America 250 Events
- July 1-31: The Spirit of '76: America Celebrates 250 Years Display
- July 3: Martha and George Washington Storytime
- July 14: Lunch and Learn: American Art
- July 16: DAR and a public reading of the Declaration of Independence
- August 14: Show & Tell: Treasures of the American Revolution
Upcoming History and Genealogy Events
- Ongoing: DAR Research Assistance
- Ongoing: One-On-One Genealogy Research Assistance
- August 18: Civil War and Spanish American War Research Assistance
Visit kentonlibrary.org/events for a complete list of upcoming programs.
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