Frankfort, the capital city of Kentucky and the home of Kentucky State University, lies on the western edge of the state’s Bluegrass region. The city of 30,000, which is more than 200 years old, grew along the banks of the Kentucky River in a small valley ordered by limestone cliffs. Preservation of historic structures throughout the city adds to its picturesque quality. Easily accessible by major highways, Frankfort is within a short drive of Lexington, Louisville, and Cincinnati.

Frankfort’s history is rich with familiar names and events. Daniel and Rebecca Boone are buried in a cemetery overlooking the city, just a few minutes’ walk from the Kentucky State University campus. In the old Statehouse, Aaron Burr was brought before a grand jury on the charge of tr eason. The Mil itary History Museum contains artifacts going back to the Revolutionary War and Civil War periods. Old houses at the Corner of Celebrities, located in the city’s oldest residential neighborhood, have at different times been the r esidences of governors, supreme court judges, senators, and other noted statesmen. The Old Capitol Building is a finely restored example of Greek Revival architecture and the first public work by renowned architect Gi deon S hryock. Its ma rble double-spiral staircase is a beautiful example of innovative design and superb craftsmanship. The Orlando Brown House, also designed by Shryock, and Liberty Hall, built by statesman John Brown, served as meeting places for such famous figures as Zachary Taylor, James Monroe, Andrew Jackson, and Theodore Roosevelt. These two hou ses, along with the Glen Willis Hous e, provide the city with beautiful areas for public receptions and with formal gardens along the river.

The Orlando Brown House, also designed by Shryock, and Liberty Hall, built by statesman John Brown, served as meeting places for such famous figures as Zachary Taylor, James Monroe, Andrew Jackson, and Theodore Roosevelt. These two hou ses, along with the Glen Willis Hous e, provide the city with beautiful areas for public receptions and with formal gardens along the river.

Today, offices of state government, the University, and local organizations join together to provide the city with places and events of interest. B eautifully planted gardens at the new State Capitol and throughout the city establish pleasant and congential surroundings. The Frankfort Arts Foundation brings nationally recognized talent to Frankfort for musical and theatrical productions. Art galleries show works by the widely known late local painter, Paul Sawyier, along with shows by other nationally and locally known artists. The Game Farm, established in 1944 by the State Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources, is only three miles from downtown Frankfort. In addition to its woods and lakes, which serve as rest and feeding areas for migratory birds, almost all of Kentucky's native animal species are in residence.

Frankfort is a diverse community that offers Kentucky State University students a variety of opportunities for recreation and personal growth. Students can choose to be a part of this community in a variety of ways. It offers access to a rich cultural and historical perspective while providing avenue for involvement in civic and community affairs.