Kentucky has an impressive history that we’re very, very proud of. Our state has many claims to fame and played a tremendous role in the American story; and, as such, the Bluegrass is home to numerous places of immense historic significance. Liberty Hall is one such place; in fact, this humble brick building in Frankfort, Kentucky, could easily compete with any historic site in the U.S.
Frankfort is one of the most charming and historic towns in Kentucky; a place where history is on proud display.
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Visiting Frankfort feels a bit like stepping back in time, with the town retaining much of its original architecture, layout, and even cobblestone streets! This is Saint Clair Street in downtown Frankfort, many years ago…
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…and this is Saint Clair Street in downtown Frankfort today! Isn’t she lovely?
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There are few places in Frankfort that aren’t historically significant, in fact; however, Liberty Hall might just be the most historically significant.
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Located in downtown Frankfort on the banks of the Kentucky River, Liberty Hall Historic Site was the home of the Brown family, one of Kentucky’s most important families.
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Four generations of Browns lived at the five-acre property for more than 150 years, building a beautiful homestead with glorious gardens and awe-inspiring architecture.
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But Liberty Hall is more than just a pretty face; homeowner John Brown was a lawyer and statesman who participated in the development and formation of Kentucky after the American Revolutionary War.
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Brown represented Virginia in the Continental Congress (1777–1778) and then in the U.S. Congress (1789–1791). In June 1792, Kentucky became the fifteenth state in the country, largely due to Brown’s efforts.
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Once the Bluegrass was an official United State of America, Brown served as one of the first U.S. senators from Kentucky, with his tenure running from 1792-1805.
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While his political career taking off, John Brown set to work building Liberty Hall. He started in 1796, but it took nearly a decade to complete. In the meantime, Brown married and became a father. In 1801, the family moved to Kentucky and into Liberty Hall. More than a mere residence, Liberty Hall no doubt provided refuge and inspiration for the Browns.
Liberty Hall Historic Site/Facebook It was designated in 1971 as a U.S. National Historic Landmark for its association with Brown and its quintessential Federalist-style architecture. Today, Liberty Hall is open for tours, and exploring the place that housed our commonwealth’s founder is truly a bucket-list must!
Have you been to Liberty Hall before? Did you know the story of this fascinating historic site in Kentucky? We’re endlessly amazed by the Bluegrass State, a place with rich history and culture.
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It was designated in 1971 as a U.S. National Historic Landmark for its association with Brown and its quintessential Federalist-style architecture. Today, Liberty Hall is open for tours, and exploring the place that housed our commonwealth’s founder is truly a bucket-list must!
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Address: Liberty Hall Historic Site, 202-218 Wilkinson St, Frankfort, KY 40601, USA
