History Center and Conservation District Partner for “Mapping – Our Sense of Space”

The Oldham County History Center recently partnered with the Oldham County Conservation District in an exhibit entitled “Mapping – Our Sense of Space”. The exhibit, which ran from October 9 – November 9, was masterminded by History Center Director, Nancy Theiss.

Visitors viewed historic land maps from as far back as 1949 and were challenged to find their homestead and follow it “through the years” via maps and aerial photographs. A map dated 1942 hand drawn by then County Agent Beech Craigmyle, identified Oldham County property by location and owner.

A display on trees and plants tested viewers knowledge on correctly matching a seed with its’ mother plant and trees with their leaves. Wildlife artifacts included a mastodon vertebra that was found in Floyd’s Fork. Through use of the RivrLab© , a stream table which was donated to the History Center by the Conservation District, visitors could create land mass with a meandering stream. By regulating the flow of water to the stream, erosion could be witnessed first-hand.

After viewing the land from above the ground, patrons were prompted to take a closer look at the soil beneath their feet. Soil samples commonly found in Oldham County were displayed along with background properties and soil books. Another part of the “underground” experience was a sinkhole display, a favorite of attendees, which was provided by the Oldham County Conservation District’s Vice-Chairman, Mr. Glenn Watson. Among the items found in the sinkhole were a 1960 Volkswagen car hood, tires, television picture tube from the 1950s, antique bottles, toys, a tub washer with wringer, and record turntable.

The Conservation District and History Center plan to continue their partnership through educational programs and county events.