Crescent Hill, Louisville facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Crescent Hill Historic District
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![]() Frankfort Avenue in Crescent Hill
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Location | Roughly bounded by Brownsboro and Lexington Rds, Peterson, Zorn, and Frankfort Aves., and Crabbs Lane, Louisville, Kentucky |
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Area | 590.6 acres (2.390 km2) |
Architectural style | Colonial Revival, Classical Revival |
NRHP reference No. | 82001556 |
Added to NRHP | November 12, 1982 |
Crescent Hill is a neighborhood located about four miles (6 km) east of downtown Louisville, Kentucky, in the USA. This area was first called "Beargrass" because it sits on a ridge between two parts of Beargrass Creek. The borders of Crescent Hill stretch from N Ewing Avenue to the St. Matthews city limit (near Cannons Lane), and from Brownsboro Road to Lexington Road. Frankfort Avenue generally runs right through the middle of the neighborhood.
The Crescent Hill Historic District is a special area that was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1982. This means it's recognized for its important history and buildings. It's roughly bordered by Brownsboro and Lexington Roads, Peterson, Zorn, and Frankfort Avenues, and Crabbs Lane.
Contents
Discovering Crescent Hill's Past
How Crescent Hill Began
Crescent Hill started to grow in the 1850s. This happened when a major road, the Louisville and Lexington turnpike (now Frankfort Avenue), and a railroad connecting Louisville and Frankfort were built through the area. These new transportation routes made it easier for people to travel and live there.
Early Fairgrounds and Orphanage
In 1853, a large fairground, about 38 acres (15 hectares) in size, was built in Crescent Hill. This fairground hosted the Agriculture and Technology fair. It was very popular! In 1857, one day saw 20,000 visitors come to the fair. Later, in 1883, the fairgrounds were taken down, and St. Joseph's Orphanage was built in its place.
Becoming Part of Louisville
Towards the end of the 1800s, the City of Louisville officially took over the old town of Crescent Hill, making it part of the larger city. In the early 1970s, the Crescent Hill Community Council was formed. This group became very active, especially after a big tornado hit in April 1974.
Saving Historic Places
In the early 1980s, the Community Council created the Peterson-Dumesnil House Foundation. This foundation bought the Peterson-Dumesnil House, located at 301 South Peterson, from the local school board. This helped save an important historic building.
Important Places in Crescent Hill
Crescent Hill is home to several places that are listed as historic sites. These include the Louisville Water Company Crescent Hill Reservoir, which is a large water storage area, and the Peterson-Dumesnil House, a beautiful historic home.
Learning and Living in Crescent Hill
Local Library
Crescent Hill has its own lending library. It's a branch of the Louisville Free Public Library, where you can borrow books, movies, and more.
Higher Education
The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary is a private college located in Crescent Hill. It's a place where students can study and learn about theology.