A Lexington community center, known for its cultural significance, especially among African Americans, now holds new historical prominence. The Charles Young Center is part of the National Register of Historic Places.
The community center in Lexington’s East End opened in 1935. It carries the name of Charles Young who born in Mays Lick Kentucky and the third African American to graduate from West Point.
Charles Fields grew up across the street from the center. He says, “The designation puts a punctuation on the fact that this building is a reality, a new rebirth and hope for the community.”
The Charles Young Center reopened four years ago after years of inactivity. Larry Johnson serves on the advisory board. Johnson says the board and the Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government want the center to serve as a “high traffic resource to its neighbors.”
The unveiling of the National Register plaque comes just days before the annual East End Family Reunion celebration.?
