How did Frankfort, Kentucky get its name?
Settlers named the crossing Frank's Ford to honor pioneer Stephen Frank who died in a skirmish with Native Americans during their journey to Mann's Lick. The name eventually shortened to Frankfort over time.
Questions about Frankfort, Kentucky
Short answers, pulled from the story.
When was Frankfort selected as the capital of Kentucky?
Five commissioners selected Frankfort as the permanent capital location after Kentucky became the fifteenth state on the 20th of June 1792. Financial incentives including £50 worth of locks and hinges and $3,000 in gold helped Frankfort win the vote against other towns.
What happened when Confederate troops marched into Frankfort on the 3rd of September 1862?
Confederate troops held control of this Union state capital for only a short period before withdrawing from the city. This event stands alone as the sole time Confederate forces occupied a Northern capital during the Civil War.
Who shot Governor William Goebel and when did he die?
Governor William Goebel walked toward the capitol building on the 3rd of February 1900 when he was shot by an unknown assailant while on his way to address the Kentucky Legislature. The governor died shortly after being wounded by gunfire following the incident.
Which bridges cross the river through downtown areas of Frankfort today?
Five bridges now cross the river through downtown areas including the St. Clair Street bridge which connects districts on opposite banks. The Capitol Avenue bridge serves another vital route for commuters across the Kentucky River.
When did the Capital Plaza Office Tower come down and what replaced it?
The tower came down on Sunday, the 11th of March 2018 after state officials recommended demolition in August 2008 due to severe neglect. A new structure named the Mayo-Underwood Building replaced the old tower in 2019.