Before the days of electricity, lamplighters walked the streets each evening, climbing ladders or using long poles to light the oil or gas lamps that kept towns illuminated after dark. At dawn, they returned to extinguish the flames. Their work was not only practical but also symbolic—they were seen as guardians of the night, bringing light, safety and connection to their communities.
The Museums of Historic Hopkinsville-Christian County’s “Spirit of the Olde Lamplighter Award” draws on this image. Just as lamplighters illuminated the streets, award recipients are recognized for shining a light on Hopkinsville’s past.
The award is named for its first recipient, historian William T. Turner, who has been called the “Olde Lamplighter” for the way he shed light on the community’s stories through photographs and storytelling.
On Sept. 20, Hoptown Chronicle’s co-founder and editor, Jennifer P. Brown, was presented with the award at the museum’s second annual gala. She joins a select group — including longtime museum employees and dedicated supporters — who have been recognized over the past decade.
Hoptown Chronicle editor Jennifer P. Brown poses with the Spirit of the Olde Lamplighter Award on Saturday, Sept. 20, outside of the Museums of Historic Hopkinsville-Christian County. (Photo provided)
With a career spanning nearly 40 years, first as a reporter at the Kentucky New Era and now as co-founder and editor of Hoptown Chronicle, Jennifer has helped ensure that Hopkinsville’s history is both preserved and understood.
Whether writing about a building’s last day standing, highlighting influential women in Hopkinsville history, eulogizing Kentucky’s first Black sheriff, or sharing surprising connections to our community’s past, her work illustrates the impact of our past on the present.
Too often, stories reported today are forgotten tomorrow. But this type of journalism can help residents make sense of their place in the community and make more informed decisions about the future.
Just as lamplighters once brought light to darkened streets, Jennifer’s reporting has illuminated stories that might otherwise fade into the shadows. It’s a reminder of the value in all of us taking time to share, preserve and honor the stories that shape who we are.
(You can read Jennifer’s stories documenting local history for Hoptown Chronicle here.)
Julia Hunter is the engagement editor for Hoptown Chronicle. Reach her at julia@hoptownchronicle.org.
