About the Kentucky Historical Society
The Kentucky Historical Society (KHS) was formed in 1836 by a group of prominent Kentuckians intent on preserving the history of the Commonwealth. Today it is a membership organization with members from Kentucky and around the world, and it serves as an agency of the Kentucky Tourism, Arts and Heritage Cabinet. KHS holds full accreditation from the American Alliance of Museums, is a Smithsonian affiliate, and was a founding member of the History Relevance Campaign.
The Society's stated mission is to educate and engage the public through Kentucky's history in order to meet the challenges of the future. It pursues that mission through exhibits, research services, educational resources, historical markers, and public programming based in the state capital of Frankfort.
Sites and Collections
The Kentucky Historical Society oversees several historic sites and research facilities, including:
- The Thomas D. Clark Center for Kentucky History, the Society's main museum and headquarters at 100 West Broadway in Frankfort.
- The Old State Capitol & Public Grounds, a landmark of Kentucky's political history.
- The Kentucky Military History Museum, located in the historic State Arsenal on East Main Street.
- The Martin F. Schmidt Research Library, supporting researchers, genealogists, and educators.
Planning Your Visit
The Society offers resources for adults, youth and families, educators, genealogists, and researchers, along with exhibits, events, and the ExploreKYHistory project. For current hours, admission, membership, and program details across its Frankfort sites, visit the official website at history.ky.gov.
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