Old State Capitol | Frankfort

Information

Landmark: Old State Capitol
City: Frankfort
Country: USA Kentucky
Continent: North America

Old State Capitol, Frankfort, USA Kentucky, North America

The Old State Capitol is a historic building located in Frankfort, Kentucky, USA. It served as the seat of Kentucky's government for over a century.

Visual Characteristics

The building is constructed primarily of limestone. It features a Greek Revival architectural style with a prominent dome. The exterior walls are a light grey, and the dome is topped with a copper cupola. The structure stands three stories high.

Location & Access Logistics

The Old State Capitol is situated at 300 West Broadway Street in Frankfort, Kentucky. It is approximately 0.5km west of the current State Capitol building. Ample street parking is available in the vicinity, though it may be metered. Public transport options include the Frankfort Transit bus lines, with stops located within a 0.2km radius of the building.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Construction of the Old State Capitol began in 1827 and was completed in 1830. It was designed by Gideon Shryock, a prominent architect of the era. The building's original purpose was to house the legislative and executive branches of the Kentucky state government.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can explore the restored legislative chambers. Self-guided tours are permitted throughout the building. Photography is allowed within designated areas. The building also houses exhibits detailing Kentucky's political history.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available on the first floor. Limited shaded areas are present on the grounds. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally strong within the building and surrounding area. No on-site food vendors are present, but several restaurants are located within a 0.5km radius.

Best Time to Visit

The best time of day for interior photography is between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM to maximize natural light. The building is open year-round, with weekdays generally offering fewer crowds than weekends. No specific tide requirements apply.

Facts & Legends

A notable historical oddity is that the building was nearly destroyed by fire in 1907 but was saved by the quick actions of local firefighters. It is also rumored that secret passages were incorporated into the original design, though their existence has never been definitively proven.