Preserving History in Martinsville with Lawrence Tyree

We’re joined by Lawrence Tyree, pastor of the Shelby Congregational Methodist Church in Shelbyville's historic Martinsville neighborhood. He discusses how Martinsville formed as a segregated community and then grew into a real center of African American culture with businesses, a school, a social club, and support systems that kept families fed and connected.  We dig into the story of Daisy Saffell, a pioneer remembered for her entrepreneurship and caregiving, and the Daisy Saffell Memorial Hospital, where healthcare often depended on donations, volunteer labor, and neighbors stepping up when there was no safety net. We also explore what preservation looks like today: securing a historic marker, protecting original artifacts, and amplifying the Voices of Martinsville oral history project so elders’ stories remain accessible, not just nostalgic. Lawrence shares why simple habits like talking to elders and journaling are practical tools for saving local history. If Shelbyville history, Kentucky hidden gems, African American heritage, and community storytelling matter to you, hit play, share this with a friend, and leave a review so more listeners can find these stories.  Send us Fan Mail 🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is presented by ShelbyKY Tourism. 🥃 Plan a visit to Your Bourbon Destination® at www.visitshelbyky.com. Located in the heart of central Kentucky and less than an hour from Louisville and Lexington, ShelbyKY is the perfect Kentucky getaway. Complete with two great distilleries, action-packed outdoor adventures, and the best vacation rentals near Louisville, put ShelbyKY at the top of your list when planning a Kentucky Bourbon Trail® trip, romantic couples retreat, or a whole-family vacation. 🎙️ Kentucky Hidden Wonders is hosted by Janette Marson and Mason Warren and edited by Ethan Fisher.  📲 Follow Kentucky Hidden Wonders: facebook.com/kentuckyhiddenwonders instagram.com/kentuckyhiddenwonders/ youtube.com/@KentuckyHiddenWonders © ShelbyKY Tourism, All Rights Reserved.