Frankfort, Kentucky's Capital
Frankfort, Franklin County, Kentucky
Marker Inscription
Frankfort. Site surveyed July 16, 1773. Founded by General James Wilkinson. Chartered by Virginia Legislature Oct. 1786. Chosen Capital of Kentucky December 1792. For more information, see ExploreKYHistory: Frankfort Chosen as Capital
Erected by Kentucky Historical Society
The Story
Surveyed in 1773 and founded by General James Wilkinson, Frankfort grew on the Kentucky River as pioneers streamed into the Bluegrass. Chartered by Virginia in 1786 and named Kentucky's capital in December 1792, the little river town won out over larger rivals to become the permanent seat of government. It has anchored the commonwealth's public life ever since.
Why it matters
Choosing a capital was one of the first acts of self-definition for a new western state, and Frankfort's selection still shapes Kentucky today.
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Related people
- · James Wilkinson
Related events
- · Kentucky statehood (1792)
Themes & tags
Nearby & related markers
Franklin County, 1795
Frankfort, KY
Franklin County was formed in 1795 from parts of Woodford, Mercer, and Shelby counties, three years after Kentucky became a state with Frankfort as its capital. The legislature had already met in the area, and in 1795 Frankfort was made the county seat. The county honors Benjamin Franklin, one of the architects of American independence.
Frankfort Chosen as State Capital
Frankfort, KY
Soon after Kentucky achieved statehood, five commissioners were appointed in June 1792 to select a seat of government. A number of towns competed, but Frankfort prevailed—thanks to persistence and a generous package that reportedly included Andrew Holmes' log house for use as a capitol, town lots, hardware, glass, nails, and gold. The commissioners gave their recommendation to the legislature in December 1792.
Early South Frankfort
Frankfort, KY
This ground was part of a 500-acre grant made in 1782 to Revolutionary War soldier George Campbell, who had campaigned with George Rogers Clark. For decades South Frankfort stood as a separate town (1810–1850), and the survey passed through the hands of legislators, state officials, and philanthropists. The Queen Anne house here was raised by John Meagher in 1889–90.
Justice Todd House
Frankfort, KY
Built in 1812, this was the Frankfort home of Thomas Todd, a Virginia-born jurist who served as clerk to the Danville conventions that brought Kentucky to statehood before rising through the young state's courts. President Jefferson appointed him to the U.S. Supreme Court, where he served from 1807 until his death in 1826. His second marriage, to Dolley Madison's sister Lucy Payne Washington, was the first wedding ever recorded in the White House.