Yesterday and Today
In 1836, the Kentucky State Legislature passed an amendatory act which annexed to Paducah an area from Jefferson Street to Clay Street from the Ohio Rivers to 9th Street. This addition was called “LowerTown” because it was downstream from Paducah’s commercial area. The prevalent architectural styles of the neighborhood are Victorian-era designs, with a great variety that includes Queen Anne, Romanesque, Italianate, Gothic and some examples of folk Victorian. In 1982, the neighborhood was recognized for its historical and architectural significance and was listed in the National Register of Historic Places.
In the intervening years, homeowners and interested citizens sought to bring life back to the magnificent old homes and buildings in Lower Town. Progress was slow. Then, in 2000, the city of Paducah adopted an Artist Relocation Plan to help revitalize the LowerTown area. Under the program, which was in place for about 10 years, financial incentives, fee reimbursements, matching funds and bank financing were offered to recruit artists, residents and businesses to the area. And the program worked!
Walking Tour
Take a Lower Town Historical and Architectural Tour put together by the Paducah Convention and Visitors Bureau. It’s wonderful to share with friends & visitors.
LTNA | Lower Town Neighborhood Association 