Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

Ever since their founding, both the Clark County-Winchester Heritage Commission and Winchester-Black History Heritage Commission – sometimes called Committee instead – have shown dedication to the community. 

With Black History Month now taking place, both are working together for an eventful occurrence. 

On Saturday, February 15, the groups are coming together to present “A Black Woman is Speaking…Listen & Learn!”. 

Taking place from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Holly Rood, located at 28 Beckner Street, they hope to see the community come out in abundance. 

Serving as guest speaker will be Mrs. Monie Loraine Francis. 

“[She] will share her story in her own words,” said Steve Justice, President of the Clark County-Winchester Heritage Commission. “It is not every day that one witnesses a 94-year-old on stage discussing the gift of life.” 

Born at the end of a decade on December 31, 1929, to Louis and Emma, Francis originally hails from Pearl Street – in Winchester. 

After her education, which included studying at Pearl Street, she worked for over 20 years at the Curlee Clothing Company, formerly located in Clark County. 

Promoted to supervisor in 1970, she continued working there until retirement in 1975. 

In both her professional life and through her personal experience – both before and after retirement – Francis hopes to share many insightful messages with the community. 

The event has been encouraged and advertised by several groups, including First Christian Church. 

Following Francis’ speaking, a reception will follow for attendees to enjoy. 

To learn more, individuals may contact Debbie Barnes – curator of Holly Rood – at (859) 333-9488. 

Interested individuals can also reach out to Joyce Morton, founder of the Winchester Black History & Heritage Committee, at (859) 744-7207.