The Legacy of Southgate Street School

Preserving a Landmark of the Black History of Newport, Kentucky

This project was created by Liz Farwick, Olivia Blake, Ella Cooper, Maddy Del Rio, Eli Dunn, Hannah Steffen, Zac Trice, students at Northern Kentucky University in the context of a Honors course.

About the project

In Spring 2023, a Honors course titled "Learning from Dall-e" taught at Northern Kentucky University initiated a creative and historical odyssey, culminating in a book that is as educational as it is visually stunning. This book is more than just a collection of pages; it's a portal to the past, powered by the innovative use of artificial intelligence. The students have harnessed the transformative power of AI to generate visuals that offer a window into the soul of the Southgate Street School, a beacon of African American education in Newport, Kentucky. This literary and artistic endeavor celebrates the school’s profound legacy, honoring the space that has been instrumental in shaping lives and nurturing minds for generations.

The journey through the Southgate Street School's history is presented through a series of 29 original AI-generated artworks, each piece a testament to the school’s impact and the broader narrative of black education in America. Through the vivid memories of alumni like Patricia Headen and Robert Ingguls, the book weaves a tapestry of personal triumphs and communal milestones. The visuals serve as anchors to stories, sentiments, and the spirit of an institution that has stood as a cornerstone of knowledge and empowerment. By bringing these elements together, the project not only pays homage to a storied past but also sparks conversations about the intersection of technology, art, and history.

Special thanks to:

Mark Neikirk
Executive director of the Scripps Howard Center for Civic Engagement at Northern Kentucky University

Scott Clark
Historic preservation officer at the City of Newport, Kentucky

Daylin Garland
Southgate Street School Museum

Brian Hackett
Professor of History at Northern Kentucky University

Stephen Johnson
Professor of Public Speaking at Northern Kentucky University

Makhayla Icard
Student at Northern Kentucky University

Valerie Davis
Newport Branch Manager at Campbell County Public Library

Get the book

The journey of Southgate Street School has been encapsulated in a unique book, now available for purchase. This is your opportunity to own a piece of history, to understand the indelible mark that this school has left on its students, and to appreciate the transformative power of education.

Each page of this book is a window into a world brought back to life through the magic of AI-generated art, offering a fresh perspective on the school's storied past. It's an immersive experience that promises to enlighten and inspire. Get your copy today and join us in honoring the legacy of the Southgate Street School.

Buy the book on Amazon (19.99$)

Get the artwork prints

Bring a piece of history to your space with exclusive prints featuring selected artwork from the project.

Each artwork captures a story of educational triumph and cultural heritage. These prints are more than images; they are symbols of the school's legacy, and your purchase contributes to the preservation and celebration of an important chapter in American history.

Click to view

Listen to the podcast

Are you wondering what it would be like to walk the halls of the historic Southgate Street School, to hear the echoes of lessons past, and to see the impact of education on generations of students?

Delve deeper into this fascinating story by listening to the podcast, where we explore the rich history and enduring legacy of this significant educational landmark. Subscribe and listen to this engaging podcast series, and let us take you on an unforgettable journey through the legacy of the Southgate Street School.