Conference Co-Host: Kentucky Historical Society

KHS—Visit us! 

We at KHS are proud to sponsor the upcoming FGS conference with the ETHS. But we want you all to know that we have a lot to offer here in Frankfort, too! So let me tell you a little more about visiting KHS.

The KHS history campus, located in downtown Frankfort, Ky., consists of three buildings: our headquarters, the Thomas D. Clark Center for Kentucky History; the Old State Capitol; and the Kentucky Military History Museum at the Old State Arsenal.

At the Center for Kentucky History, a multi-million dollar museum and research facility, you can immerse yourself in the Kentucky experience and watch history come to life. First, you will want to check out both exhibitions housed in the Center.

In the Society’s signature exhibition, “A Kentucky Journey,” put yourself in the shoes of Kentuckians who lived through both struggles and triumphs—from the Civil War to the Civil Rights movement—as you explore 12,000 years of the commonwealth’s history. “Kentucky Military Treasures,” the newest KHS exhibition, tells the stories of Kentuckians who fought in battles spanning nearly 200 years and includes artifacts from conflicts ranging from the War of 1812 to more recent engagements in Afghanistan and Iraq.

After checking out our exhibitions, genealogists will definitely want to visit the Martin F. Schmidt Library, the commonwealth’s premier genealogical research library. This is the where you will be able to trace your family’s roots and benefit from the expertise of the KHS professional staff.
 
After spending some time in the library, stop by the Stewart Home School 1792 Store, where you can purchase a Kentucky keepsake to remember your trip.Just down the street from the Center is the Old State Capitol, a National Historic Landmark that served as Kentucky’s capitol from 1830 to 1910. You can delve into the politics and everyday life of the tumultuous 19^th-century as you tour the building with a knowledgeable guide. In the galleries of this stately building, you will witness the evolution of decorative styles in “Great Revivals,” an exhibition showcasing never-before-seen artifacts from KHS collections.


If you are visiting on a Saturday, you will definitely want to check out the Kentucky Military History Museum at the Old State Arsenal before you leave. Schedule a guided tour of the fortress-like building at the Center. On the tour, you will learn about the architecture of the building, which was constructed in 1850, and the history of the grounds.

Think all of this sounds great and plan to visit often? Become a member! Joining is easy and, considering all of the great benefits you receive as a member, it is cheap.

Visiting our history campus in a single day or afternoon can be overwhelming, so we suggest that you stay for a couple days. There are a lot of great lodging options nearby, including The Meeting House, a quaint bed and breakfast located within walking distance of the KHS history campus. The Meeting House owners, Boston transplants Gary and Rose Burke, will make sure that you are well-fed and rested.

If you are in the mood for something quick and tasty, you can check out Buddy’s, a pizzeria with a to-die-for veggie pizza and a wall completely dedicated to local 4-legged friends. Buddy’s is located between the Old State Capitol and Center for Kentucky History, just like Gibby’s. You will want to try one of Gibby’s specialty salads or sandwiches.  The 3-cheese grilled cheese is my favorite.

Looking for something a little nicer? Don’t worry, we have that, too! Also within walking distance of our history campus, Serafini features delicious Italian cuisine and a great view of the Old State Capitol. Try the bruschetta. You won’t regret it! You’ll need to take home some local fare, too. The Rebecca Ruth Chocolate Café, which sells delicious bourbon balls and other candies, is located right next door to the Center for Kentucky History.

One more must-see attraction in Frankfort is the Buffalo Trace Distillery. On a tour with one of the distillery’s lively guides you will experience a century-old aging warehouse, visit the hand-bottling hall and sample some of the distillery’s finest bourbons.

This is just a small taste of everything we have to offer in Frankfort and at KHS. If you are interested in learning more, visit the KHS Web site, www.history.ky.gov or call 502-564-1792.

-Lauren Medley, KHS marketing coordinator. The lodging, attraction and food suggestions are just my humble opinions—we have many great options not mentioned above. Visit www.visitfrankfort.com or www.downtownfrankfort.com to learn more.