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Kentucky History & HauntsAuthor: Jessie Bartholomew
History, true crime & bizarre happenings in the bluegrass state. Kentucky is a treasure trove of unique people, events, and places dating as far back as the mastodon! You don't have to be from Kentucky to appreciate these stories. Subscribe today and share with a friend. Please email topic suggestions to kyhistoryhaunts@gmail.com. Visit the website to browse our merch at kyhistoryhaunts.com. And please leave a review or rating wherever you're enjoying the show. Thanks for listening. Language: en Genres: History Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it Trailer: |
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161. Dr. St. Elmo Brady
Episode 161
Tuesday, 17 February, 2026
In this episode of Kentucky History & Haunts, we trace the remarkable life of Dr. St. Elmo Brady, a Louisville-born chemist, educator, and civil rights pioneer whose influence reached far beyond the laboratory. Born in 1884 amid flooding, segregation, and racial inequality, Brady rose to become the first Black American to earn a Ph.D. in chemistry and one of the most important scientific educators of the 20th century.From Central Colored High School in Louisville to Fisk University, Tuskegee Institute, Howard University, and beyond, Brady’s life was defined by curiosity, service, and an unshakable belief in education as a tool for progress. Along the way, he forged relationships with Booker T. Washington and George Washington Carver, built chemistry departments from the ground up, delivered lectures that blended science, faith, and social responsibility, and mentored generations of students.This episode also explores the deeply personal moments of Brady’s life, including devastating loss, tireless travel, and his lifelong commitment to teaching and research, even into his final years. Though his name is often overlooked in popular histories, his legacy quietly shapes American science and education to this day.If you enjoyed this episode, consider leaving a rating or review on your podcast app. It helps more people find the show and supports independent history storytelling.Venmo: https://account.venmo.com/u/kyhistoryhauntsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/kyhistoryhauntsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/kyhistoryhauntsSend Jessie mail:Jessie Bartholomew9115 Leesgate RdSuite ALouisville KY 40222Have a Kentucky story you’d like to hear explored? Or an historic figure you think deserves more attention?Reach out anytime.Email @kyhistoryhaunts@gmail.com*Transcripts are auto-generated and may contain errors.LEARN MORE ABOUT ST. ELMO BRADY-https://chemistry.illinois.edu/spotlight/alumni/brady-st-elmo-1884-1966 https://www.acs.org/education/whatischemistry/landmarks/st-elmo-brady.htmlhttps://www.acs.org/education/whatischemistry/landmarks/st-elmo-brady.html
