Kentucky’s new state office building, built on the site of the old penitentiary, began to take shape in 1939. The stone wall, blockhouse, and towers at the entrance to the prison are visible in the background. Photo by Cusick. KHS Collections.
In an act passed during a special session and approved March 7, 1936, Kentucky state government was reorganized. The act grouped administrative functions under a smaller number of departments, reduced the authority of some elected officials, and placed more power in the hands of the governor. It formed the basis of governmental structure in the Commonwealth for three decades.
Kentucky’s new state office building, built on the site of the old penitentiary, began to take shape in 1939. The stone wall, blockhouse, and towers at the entrance to the prison are visible in the background. Photo by Cusick. KHS Collections.
