Discover the compelling stories of resilience at Riverside in Louisville through guided historic and archaeological tours. Dive into a unique outdoor history session that sheds light on African American lives and achievements beyond the surface. Read on to see why this site offers a meaningful outdoor experience rooted in Louisville’s rich cultural past.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; some walking required on uneven surfaces.
Wildlife
History
The site was a hub of African American history, particularly relating to enslaved and free communities shaping Louisville’s past since the 19th century.
Conservation
The site actively preserves archaeological findings and promotes education about Civil Rights and African American history, encouraging sustainable visitation practices.
Riverside, the Farnsley-Moremen Landing
Discover the compelling stories of resilience at Riverside in Louisville through guided historic and archaeological tours. Dive into a unique outdoor history session that sheds light on African American lives and achievements beyond the surface. Read on to see why this site offers a meaningful outdoor experience rooted in Louisville’s rich cultural past.
Riverside, the Farnsley-Moremen Landing preserves and interprets a historic riverfront farm and the 1837 Farnsley-Moremen House in Louisville, Kentucky. The site offers guided house tours, one-hour walking tours of outbuildings and grounds, hands-on archaeology experiences, and family activity boxes designed to engage visitors of all ages. Programs include a focused exploration of African American history led by historian Teresa Lee and an archaeology field experience led by archaeologist Lori Stahlgren, along with docent-led tours that highlight ongoing archaeological findings.
Visitors can join excavations to learn field techniques, participate in discovery-based exercises from the Family Hands-On History Adventure Box, or take timed tours that explore life in the 1840s and 1880s through preserved rooms and period interpretation. The property emphasizes archaeology as a tool to reveal untold stories and to deepen understanding of everyday life for enslaved and free people connected to the farm.
Riverside maintains a schedule of public programs and specialty experiences that accommodate families and adults. Interpretive staff and volunteers provide contextual information during tours and digs, helping guests connect artifacts and landscape features to documented histories. As a public historic site in Louisville, Riverside collaborates with historians and archaeologists to present research-informed experiences. Information about scheduled trips, reservations, accessibility, and family resources is available through the site's programs listing and partners.
Tours and programs are suitable for history enthusiasts, school groups, and casual visitors seeking hands-on learning. Advance booking is recommended for specialty digs and facilitated programs to ensure staffing and site preparation. See current program calendar.
Location
Louisville, KY
Historic site and grounds
Historic House
1837
Farnsley-Moremen House preserved
On-site Experts
Historian & Archaeologist
Teresa Lee and Lori Stahlgren
Tours Offered
5 experiences
House, walks, digs, family box
Reserve a guided tour, join an archaeology dig, or pick up the Family Hands-On History Adventure Box — bookings recommended.
Wear comfortable walking shoes
The tour involves walking over uneven historic grounds, so sturdy shoes will ensure comfort and safety.
Bring water and sun protection
Outdoor activity requires hydration and sun safety, especially during warmer months.
Plan for at least two hours
This activity typically lasts around two hours, allowing time for a thorough walk and discussion.
Check weather conditions beforehand
Opportune to confirm weather to dress appropriately and avoid rain or heat extremes.
Comfortable walking shoes
Supportive shoes to comfortably navigate historic terrain and uneven grounds.
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
Helps prevent sunburn during outdoor activities under direct sunlight.
summer
Water bottle
Stay hydrated while walking outdoor grounds and historic sites.
Layered clothing
Dress in layers for warmth during cooler months and variable weather.
winter