Red Orchard History

In March 2007, Clarence Miller, officially donated his 131 acre farm, now known as Red Orchard Park, to Shelby County's Parks Department.  It had been his family's home since 1925.  Mr. Miller is 94 years old and 85 years of his life has been on this beautiful, well - kept farm.  Red Orchard Park got its name from the orchard which was planted around 1792 by Aquilla Whitaker, who settled in what is now Shelby County, Kentucky at Whitaker Station, an important refuge for early settlers in the region.  She and her husband John helped to establish the town of Shelbyville.  The orchard was said to turn a brilliant red in the fall; thus the name "Red Orchard".  The park consists of 131 acres of beautiful rolling land with lush pasture and gorgeous mature trees such a walnut, blue ash, and sycamore.

There have been three public Master Plan meetings at which the public could present their dreams for what the park will be.  It will take several years to actually complete the Master Plan; however, the park land will offer beautiful sites for picnics, walking, and the enjoyment of nature soon.