Construction of Kentucky’s capitol, October 28, 1907. Photo by H. A. Gretter. KHS Collections.
At the beginning of a new century, Kentucky legislators realized the need for a larger capitol. On February 6, 1904, they approved an act “to provide for the erection and completion of the Capitol and other necessary buildings at the seat of government.” This act appropriated $1,000,000 for construction and set up a commission to oversee the project. The commission ultimately decided to purchase a new site in South Frankfort for $40,000. Excavation began in 1905, and the building was dedicated June 1, 1910, for a total cost of $1,750,000 for the building, furnishings, equipment, and landscaping. A reimbursement of $1,000,000 from the federal government for damages during the Civil War helped pay the cost.
Construction of Kentucky’s capitol, October 28, 1907. Photo by H. A. Gretter. KHS Collections.
