The history of Davis Bottom offers extraordinary insights into the development of a strong, tight-knit, working-class neighborhood in Lexington, Kentucky. Established in 1867, Davis Bottom is one of about a dozen ethnic enclaves built near downtown Lexington after the Civil War. The first residents were mostly African American families who moved to urban centers in search of work, greater security and educational opportunities. Davis Bottom was also home to white European and Appalachian families who established strong family roots and life-long bonds with their neighbors. There are relatively few archival records about life in Davis Bottom. Therefore, every historical document, newspaper account, photo and description provides a rare glimpse into the valuable lives of the people who made Davis Bottom one the most diverse neighborhoods in Kentucky.