Blue Grass Trust August 2024 deTour | Historic Palmer Pharmacy

The August 2024 Blue Grass Trust deTour explored the Historic Palmer Pharmacy, a significant Civil Rights site in Lexington’s East End, once owned by Dr. Zirl Palmer. Built in 1961, it was the first Black-owned Rexall franchise in the U.S. and was a vital community hub. Dr. Palmer, a prominent civic leader, was involved with numerous local organizations and served on the University of Kentucky’s Board of Trustees. Despite opening a second pharmacy in the West End, a racially motivated bombing in 1968 led to its closure. The original Palmer Pharmacy remains the last standing structure built, owned, and managed by an African American pharmacist from that era.

Thanks to the support and advocacy of the Blue Grass Trust and our community partners, we ensured the building was preserved and today serves as a WayPoint for the United Way, continuing Dr. Palmer’s legacy of civic engagement.