Mahr Park at Hidden Hills Farm, a 265-acre former farm bequeathed by Dr. Merle and Glema Mahr, is in development. The park opens this year and hopes to be a model and template for exemplary land stewardship.
Tracy Ross Speaks with Sam Koltinsky, the first "artist in residence" at Mahr Park and Barbie Hunt, co-trustee of the Mahr Trust about the project in this two-part interview.
Hunt says the Mahrs came to Kentucky from New York, and immediately fell in love with the place. She says the couple dedicated themselves to help Madisonville live up to its title, "The Best Town on Earth." When Glema Mahr passed away in 2009, she had set aside the farm along with a sum of cash for the city to build the park.
Koltinsky says he was drawn to the Mahrs' dedication, and connected with Hunt on joining the project.
Hunt says she's worked with new leadership in Madisonville to make the most of the Mahrs' trust fund. A committee was established that met for two years. They interviewed several contractors and settled on one with experience in turning farms into parks.
After several community gatherings and even more work, the park is set to open this year.
"What her (Glema Mahr) dream was, is happening," Hunt said.
Koltinsky is making a documentary on the project. He says the land has a unique and historic feel.
"It brings you back to something that's very soothing to the soul, and makes you realize that you're a part of this," Koltinsky said.
