The Local Development Corporation is inviting the community to celebrate the unveiling of a new Kentucky Historical Marker honoring Peter Postell — a trailblazing Black businessman, investor, and community leader in Hopkinsville’s history.
The ceremony will take place Saturday, October 25 at 2 p.m. in Postell Plaza, located at the corner of 6th and Virginia Streets in downtown Hopkinsville.
The effort to recognize Postell began in 2021 with an application to the Kentucky Historical Society, culminating in a partnership between the Local Development Corporation, the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet and the City of Hopkinsville.
This is the second historical marker installed this year in the city’s Downtown Renaissance District, and officials say the marker program helps honor those whose legacies have shaped a stronger, more vibrant community.
Postell was born into slavery in 1841 in North Carolina and brought to Kentucky before escaping bondage during the Civil War. He enlisted in the 16th U.S. Colored Infantry, later returning to Hopkinsville, where he built a thriving grocery business on the same site where the new marker now stands.
Over time, Postell became a successful entrepreneur, expanding into real estate, investments and philanthropy. He and his wife, Pauline, raised a large family whose descendants went on to become leaders in politics, government and education.
Postell also supported major city improvements, including the historic Hotel Latham. At his death in 1901, newspapers described him as one of the wealthiest Black men in the South.
Among those speaking at Saturday’s unveiling will be Postell’s great-great-granddaughter, Paula Carter, who will reflect on his enduring legacy and the significance of this recognition.
More on Postell here:
Postell, Peter, Sr. [Peter Glass] · Notable Kentucky African Americans Database
