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The Filson collects, preserves, and shares the significant history and culture of Kentucky and the Ohio Valley – including YOURS!

Bringing History Home Research Services Historical Resources on Racial Inequality in Louisville
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Upcoming Event

Dine & Dialogue: Life Behind the Veil

Date: August 15, 2022
Time: 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Location: Filson Historical Society (In-Person and Zoom Options for Lecture)
Tickets
Life Behind a Veil

In Life Behind a Veil: Blacks in Louisville, Kentucky, 1865 – 1930, George Wright looks at the particulars of what is termed “a polite form of racism”. He also looks at the ways in which Blacks made the most of their less than ideal position, focusing on the institutions that were central to their lives. Blacks in Louisville boasted the first library for Blacks in the United States, as well as Black-owned banks, hospitals, churches, settlement houses, and social clubs. These supported and reinforced a sense of community, self-esteem, and pride that was often undermined by the white world.

Life Behind a Veil is a comprehensive account of race relations, Black response to white discrimination, and the Black community behind the walls of segregation in this border town. The title echoes Blyden Jackson’s recollection of his childhood in Louisville, where Blacks were always aware that there were two very distinct Louisville’s, one of which they were excluded from.

Venue Rental

Spaces Available for Rent Beginning 2022

The Filson Historical Society is a unique venue that blends the historic with the modern and provides a stunning background for any event. Several areas of the campus are available to be rented for dinners, retreats, meetings, receptions, parties, or weddings. The venues have access to 74 free parking spaces and wifi, as well as small catering areas. All of the Filson’s facilities have accessible parking.

View a virtual tour of our spaces!

Learn More about Filson Rentals

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1310 S. 3rd St., Louisville, KY 40208
(502) 635-5083

Masks are recommended indoors at the Filson due to the high COVID community levels but are optional at this time.

The Filson will be closed to the Public on Friday, August 19th.

Plan Your Visit to the Filson!  To register or purchase tickets for our events, please visit our Events Page; for information on recorded lectures and other activities, please visit us online at Bringing History Home.

The Research Library is open Monday through Friday, 9 am to 4:30pm; we close at 12:30 pm on the third Friday of each month. Appointments are not required, but feel free to reserve a seat online – learn more here.  We also continue to provide remote research services; please email gro.l1660185653aciro1660185653tsihn1660185653oslif1660185653@hcra1660185653eser1660185653.