Franklin City Paves the Way to Historical Hoy Park and Inspires Residents
FRANKLIN, Ky. – An Unveiling of Cultural Heritage
The picturesque city of Franklin recently initiated a significant step towards community education and engagement by inaugurating Hoy Park. The park, steeped in distinctive history dating back to the seventeenth century, once belonged to Thomas Hoy. He, along with his wife Susan, were among the early settlers in Franklin and this park stands as a testament to their contribution towards the city’s development.
Delving into the Depths of History
According to Tammie Carey, the Director of Human Resources and Community Relations for the City of Franklin, “The Hoy family played an essential role in the evolution of our community. Thomas Hoy was granted this land for his service in the Revolutionary War. The entire family’s influence is prominent throughout the history of Simpson County.” The land is now haven to a family cemetery and Hoy Cave, which once provided shelter to wayfarers in the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries.
In a bid to reach the hearts and minds of the local community, Patrick Meguiar, a direct descendant of the Hoy family, animated the park’s inauguration by presenting old photographs and the family bible. He also unveiled a long-kept family secret concerning a renowned outlaw, Jesse James. He revealed, “Jesse James frequently visited Simpson County, training his thoroughbred racehorses on my great great grandparent’s property. It has been a family secret for generations.”
A Well-Earned Celebration of History and Nature
The opening of Hoy Park was a grand affair, celebrated by both city and county officials along with residents. The occasion was marked by a ribbon-cutting ceremony and a collective lap around the newly-manicured one-mile trail. The park project commenced in April 2018 when Franklin applied for a Recreational Trails Grant through the Kentucky Department for Local Government. It resulted in a $100,000 grant that propelled critical groundwork such as conducting archeological surveys and accrued approvals from the US Department of Fish and Wildlife. Designed by Arnold Consulting and Engineering Services and built after the grant was signed in 2019, the park came to life in April 2023.
Expressing his happiness, Mayor of Franklin Larry Dixon stated, “This project, several years in the making, is a remarkable asset to us. Franklin is a beautiful place, and Hoy Park makes it even more so. My wish is for families and friends to gather in this natural haven, enjoy, and appreciate their time.” Residents exploring the park are invited to be vigilant about encountering wildlife during their time on the trail.
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