Frankfort is a city in the U. S. commonwealth of Kentucky that serves as the state capital and the county seat of Franklin County.
The population was 27,741 at the 2000 census; by population, it is the 4th smallest state capital in the United States.
James Wilkinson purchased in 1786, the 260-acre tract of land on the north side of the Kentucky River, which is now downtown Frankfort.
Frankfurt Kentucky capitol building lit for evening
He was an early promoter to make Frankfort the state capital. Wilkinson is called by some the father of Frankfort.
The town of Frankfort probably received its name from an event that took place in 1780’s when Indians attacked a group of pioneers from Bryan’s Station who were making salt at a ford in the Kentucky River. One of the pioneers, Stephen Frank, was killed and the crossing became known as “Frank’s Ford.”
Later this name was shortened to Frankfort.
A floral clock that sits near the capitol building in Frankfurt Kentucky
During the American Civil War fortifications overlooking downtown Frankfort were built on what is now called Fort Hill. The Confederate Army occupied Frankfort for a short time.
Frankfort is located at the northern extreme limit of the humid subtropical climate of the Southeastern United States. It is proximal to the climatic transition zone where the subtropical Southeast blends with and then eventually changes to a humid continental climate further north.
There are some amazing things to see in and do in Kentucky and Frankfort is centrally located to most of them.
The FEI World Equestrian Games are the World Equestrian Championships which include show jumping, dressage, eventing, driving, reining, vaulting, endurance and para-equestrian. The games are held at the Kentucky Horse Park which is located just 20 miles from Frankfort, connected by expressway, making for an easy 20-minute commute through the most scenic horse country in the world.
A view of Frankfurt Kentucky from the hill above the city
Headquartered in Peaks Mill, 8 miles north of Frankfort, Canoe Kentucky provides a network of water adventures: canoeing, kayaking, duckies, tubing, fishing, swimming, camping, hiking and caving. Canoe Kentucky’s environmental/educational training division offers kayak and canoe classes with certified instructors. Guided or self-guided canoe trips and raft rentals available over mild whitewater Class I and II, depending on the stream.
Salato Wildlife Education Center is an educational center with interactive and interpretive exhibits featuring native plants and animals. Scheduled wildlife education programs for children and adults are offered year round.
A Little Bit of Heaven guided trail rides and horse rentals for all levels. Picnic sites, hayrides, indoor classroom and restroom facilities. Various lesson packages for children and adults. Experience the capital from horseback.
