Oliver Lewis Statue Commemoration At Churchill Downs
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Permanent Statue Dedication: Honoring Oliver Lewis at Churchill Downs
Date: Wednesday, June 24, 2026
Time: 11:00 AM EST
Location: Churchill Downs, First Turn Entrance, Louisville, KY
Join the Oliver Lewis Foundation, family descendant Rodney Van Johnson, and community leaders for a monumental moment in history.
In 1875, 18-year-old Oliver Lewis won the very first Kentucky Derby. While 13 of the 15 jockeys in that inaugural race were Black men, systemic Jim Crow segregation completely forced them out of the sport by the early 1900s.
On June 24th, we are permanently reclaiming that space.
This dedication honors the full genius of Oliver Lewis. When barred from the track, he out-innovated the era of erasure—thriving as a shrewd businessman, trusted notary public, and intellectual inventor.
The historic ceremony will feature guest speakers, community icons, and official "Oliver Lewis Day" proclamations from the city of Louisville.
Open to the general public, community organizations, and the press. Space at the First Turn Entrance is strictly limited. RSVP at link: https://theoliverlewis.com/events
Date: Wednesday, June 24, 2026
Time: 11:00 AM EST
Location: Churchill Downs, First Turn Entrance, Louisville, KY
Join the Oliver Lewis Foundation, family descendant Rodney Van Johnson, and community leaders for a monumental moment in history.
In 1875, 18-year-old Oliver Lewis won the very first Kentucky Derby. While 13 of the 15 jockeys in that inaugural race were Black men, systemic Jim Crow segregation completely forced them out of the sport by the early 1900s.
On June 24th, we are permanently reclaiming that space.
This dedication honors the full genius of Oliver Lewis. When barred from the track, he out-innovated the era of erasure—thriving as a shrewd businessman, trusted notary public, and intellectual inventor.
The historic ceremony will feature guest speakers, community icons, and official "Oliver Lewis Day" proclamations from the city of Louisville.
Open to the general public, community organizations, and the press. Space at the First Turn Entrance is strictly limited. RSVP at link: https://theoliverlewis.com/events
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Where is it happening?
Churchill Downs, 700 Central Ave,Louisville, Kentucky, United States
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
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Host or PublisherThe Oliver Lewis
