The city of Louisville was chartered in 1780 and in the 240+ years that have passed, the city and its streets are chock-full of vibrant history.
We’re delving into the history of Louisville’s streets — specifically how they were named.
Downtown
Broadway — was originally known as Prather Street, named after Thomas Prather, one of Louisville’s first merchants in the 18th century. It became Broadway in the 1850s.
Bonus: Read more on the future of Broadway below in News Notes.
The Highlands
Barret Avenue — named after Louisville’s prominent Barret family, whose members included local judge and politician Alex G. Barret who is also the namesake of Barret Middle School. The section of Barret between Baxter Avenue and Broadway used to be called Underhill Street, but was re-named Barret in 1923.
Clifton
Mellwood Avenue — was named after the Mellwood Distillery, which operated from the 19th century through prohibition. It had previously been known as Southall Street and Reservoir Avenue.
Blood Drive | 10 a.m.-3 p.m. | Louisville Slugger Field | Free | Give blood in exchange for Bats tickets and a chance to win seats at the Super Bowl.
Thursday, Jan. 23
My Bloody Valentine: Murder Mystery Food Tour | Thursday, Jan. 23-Friday, Feb. 28 | 6-9 p.m. | Bar Nada Nada | $159 | Find clues at three different NuLu restaurants to solve a fictional murder — all while sampling food and drink along the way.
Friday, Jan. 24
Sir Eltom John (Tom’s Elton Tribute) | 7-9 p.m. | Louisville Memorial Auditorium | $20 | Be your best “Tiny Dancer” at this tribute to the pop rock pianist.
Mark your calendars: The next community meeting for Broadway All The Way will take place Tuesday, Jan. 28 at the Goodwill Opportunity Campus on W. Broadway. Bring your ideas for how to improve the 10-mile, 193-year-old roadway.
Job
Would you be great for the great outdoors? Jefferson Memorial Forest is hiring a full-time naturalist who will plan, develop, and conduct educational and recreational programs. If you’ve got a science-related Bachelor’s degree — and you know how to paddle a canoe — apply today.
Arts
Attention Derby City da Vincis and ‘Ville van Goghs: The Norton Commons Art Festival is on Saturday, May 17 + Sunday, May 18. Show and sell your art with booth. It’s $300 for new artists. Submit an application by Tuesday, April 1.
History
According to local legend, 19th century land speculator Joseph Abell buried gold somewhere on his 600-acre property that eventually became the Middletown area. Abell died in 1846, but the gold has yet to be found. Excuse us while we grab a shovel.
Sports
How does a Louisvillian say goodbye to a friend? “Go Cards.” Get game coverage, analysis, insights, interviews, and more from local experts of the Cardinals with Locked On’s daily podcasts.
Health
Working on your wellness goals in 2025? The Medical Transformation Center’s Transform Weight program might be for you. Explore how this program combines medicine with personalized nutrition, lifestyle, movement, and emotional health support — and see if it’s a fit for you.*
Try This
Why keep your event a secret? Share it with our audience of the most engaged Louisvillians. Visit our self-service ad portal to get started + your event could be in our newsletter in as little as two days.
The Buy
The Buy
Our favorite $6.99 women’s thermal undershirts and women’s thermal leggings to get you through the winter season. We love brand 32 Degrees (you may recognize it from Costco) for durable, warm basics at price points that make us happy.
I don’t know about you, but going back to work after a long holiday weekend is always a drag.
Good thing there’s lots of places around town for a lil’ pick-me-up. Use our guide to local coffee shops and grab coffee for the office this morning — they’ll love you for it.
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