From NKAA, Notable Kentucky African Americans Database (main entry)
Paducah (KY) Emancipation Day Reunion
August 8 is noted as the day when Western Kentucky African Americans learned that slavery had ended and therefore is a day of celebration for families in Paducah, KY. In 2005, the Emancipation celebration was held in conjunction with the Ware Pettigrew family reunion. Events included the Emancipation Day Parade.
For more see G. Thomas, "Kentucky Emancipation Day Reunion," News Channel 6 (NBC), 8/6/2005 and following; and for the 2008 celebration, see A. Shull, "Eighth of August focuses on churches," Paducah Sun, 8/3/08, State and regional section.