The Kentucky Native American Heritage Commission...

announces the establishment of the Helen Danser Memorial Gardens at Thorn Hill Education Center, made possible through the Center’s donation of dedicated garden space.

The gardens feature a traditional Eastern Woodlands Native American planting area and a wikiup, honoring the life and legacy of Helen Danser, a lifelong advocate for Indigenous rights, recognition, and education. Danser was recently inducted into the Kentucky Human Rights Hall of Fame in recognition of her decades of service.

Educational elements at the site include a commemorative plaque, interpretive signage, and a large-scale mural reproducing a circa 1760 village scene from the Slato Wildlife Center.

The Commission also announced an annual “First Planting” Educational Event, launching this spring, featuring hands-on workshops in traditional seed care, hide tanning, and cattail mat weaving. Mats created during the event will be used to maintain the wikiup.

“This is a living educational space that carries Helen Danser’s legacy forward,” said Chris A. Robinson, Acting Chair of the Commission.

For more information, contact the Kentucky Native American Heritage Commission.