Father of Kentucky Historical Marker Program
Frankfort, Franklin County, Kentucky
Marker Inscription
"Father of Kentucky Historical Society Highway Marker Program". Still dynamic after a full career of diversified public service, W. A. Wentworth directed rapid expansion of Kentucky Historical Highway Marker Program as Chairman, 1962 until his death, 1971. Born New Hampshire, 1888. Public Relations executive with Borden Co., N.Y., for 27 years. President General, Natl. Society Sons of the American Revolution. (Reverse) "Father of Kentucky Historical Society Highway Marker Program" - In 1962, eighty percent of the few markers in Kentucky were located in the Bluegrass area. Under W. A. Wentworth's leadership, markers were erected in every county with more than 1100 in the state. Affection for his "adopted state" was displayed by dedication to this program. These historical markers will remain a monument to his scholarship and integrity.
Erected by Kentucky Historical Society
The Story
W. A. Wentworth, a New Hampshire–born public relations executive who adopted Kentucky as his home, transformed the state's Historical Highway Marker Program as its chairman from 1962 until his death in 1971. When he began, most of Kentucky's few markers stood in the Bluegrass region; under his leadership more than 1,100 markers were erected in every county. His work made the state's history visible along its roadsides.
Why it matters
Wentworth built the very network of markers that lets travelers encounter Kentucky's past firsthand, a lasting monument to public history and preservation.
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Related people
- · W. A. Wentworth
Themes & tags
Nearby & related markers
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