Harrodsburg: Celebrating 250 Years

HARRODSBURG CELEBRATING 250 YEARS

Greystone House at Beaumont Inn

Kentucky’s Oldest Town Celebrates 250 Years

Harrodsburg was established in 1774 by pioneer James Harrod. Originally known as Harrod’s Town or Harrodstown, it was the first permanent settlement west of the Allegheny Mountains. The town has come a long way since then, and today, it is a mix of pieces from the past and contemporary necessities.

In the downtown area, visitors will find historic homes, churches and businesses from many eras, all with stories to tell. The Harrodsburg Post Office is a priceless piece of the town’s history. This 1930s Colonial Revival-style building is home to murals that tell the story of the community. The murals were created by the Works Progress Administration (WPA) during the Depression.

St. Philip’s Episcopal Church dates back to the 1860s. It is said that Leonidas Polk, a Confederate general during the Civil War and an Episcopal bishop, went to this church to pray during the Battle of Perryville, which took place nearby in 1862.

Thanks to the Harrodsburg Historical Society, these stories and more have been preserved. The organization is housed in the oldest rowhouse in the state, called Morgan Row, which dates back to the early 1800s. The society has exhibits, artifacts and memorabilia that tell the story of Harrodsburg and Mercer County.

In downtown Harrodsburg, they don’t just live in the past! Several times throughout the year, the streets are blocked off for holiday celebrations such as St. Patrick’s Day and Christmas, but also old cars, live music and the town’s biggest celebration, Oktoberfest.

 A circa 1913 photograph of King’s Mill on Dix River. This mill was left standing when Herrington Lake was formed and now is at the bottom of that body of water.

Photograph from the Wilson Family Photographic Collection at the University of Kentucky.

ANNUAL EVENTS IN DOWNTOWN HARRODSBURG INCLUDE:

CRUZ ON CHILES

See a collection of hot rods, roadsters and restored cars lined up on Chiles Street. First Saturday of every month during the summer.

FRIDAY NIGHTS ON MAIN

Bring the family to enjoy shopping, food trucks and live music along Harrodsburg’s Main Street. Second Friday of every month during the summer.

A.T.O.M. FEST

For “A Thing On Main,” attendees enjoy food, drinks and live music on Main Street the third Saturday of May, with proceeds going to a good cause.

SHAMROCK SHUFFLE

Everyone dons green and heads to the downtown bars and eateries to celebrate all things Irish! St. Patrick’s Day weekend every year.

OKTOBERFEST

Central Kentucky’s largest Oktoberfest celebration draws more than 15,000 to enjoy live music, traditional German food and, of course, beer! Don’t forget your lederhosen! First weekend of October.

OL’ IRON RUNDOWN

This hot rod and custom car show features vehicles made before 1987. In addition to the cars, visitors will find food trucks, live music and entertainment. Memorial Day weekend.

TRICK OR TREATING ON MAIN

Harrodsburg welcomes thousands to trick or treat downtown as local businesses hand out candy. Visitors also will enjoy a live “Thriller” dance and much more! October 31.

CHRISTMAS ON MAIN

Fun for the whole family! Enjoy kids’ crafts, photos with Santa, live music and craft vendors, capped off with the lighting of the town’s Christmas tree. First weekend in December.

SHAKER VILLAGE OF PLEASANT HILL

Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill, Kentucky’s largest National Historic Landmark, is located just outside Harrodsburg.

For more than 100 years, Pleasant Hill was home to a community known as the Shakers due to their ecstatic dancing and shaking during worship. The Shakers lived communally as brothers and sisters. They were pacifists, practiced celibacy, and emphasized gender, racial and ethnic equality. The Shakers committed themselves to their daily labors as a form of prayer and were known for their expertise as builders, farmers and craftspeople. The sale of brooms, seeds, preserves and other items enabled the society to prosper economically.

Though simplicity was a key tenet of the Shaker lifestyle, Pleasant Hill’s impressive architecture and ingenious infrastructure are testimonies to the

Shakers’ efforts to improve their physical surroundings and provide efficient solutions to daily needs.

Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill continues its mission to inspire generations through discovery by sharing the legacies of the Kentucky Shakers. Skilled preservationists maintain the upkeep of the property’s 34 original Shaker structures. Naturalists protect and study delicate ecosystems, including 1,000 acres of restored prairie. Farmers cultivate diverse crops in organic gardens, fields and an orchard. Archivists care for rare Shaker artifacts, and historians connect the past to the present through scholarly research and public programming.

As you explore Shaker Village, you will be greeted by a team of professional interpreters who will guide your experience and answer questions. Join engaging daily tours, visit educational exhibits,

Today, Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill continues its mission to inspire generations through discovery by sharing the legacies of the Kentucky Shakers.

Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill

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and stop by outdoor learning stations to discover a deeper sense of place. If you’d like to venture farther afield, the Village’s nature preserve offers 30 miles of hiking trails that wind through diverse landscapes.

Other unique opportunities to explore the historic property are offered seasonally, with horsedrawn wagon rides around the Historic Centre of the Village, and events, concerts, workshops and special programs scheduled throughout the year.

After you’ve worked up an appetite, enjoy the bounty of the farm with a meal at the seedto-table restaurant, The Trustees’ Table. The Village’s chef and farm manager work closely together to create seasonal menus featuring organic produce from the garden, just steps outside the kitchen door. You won’t want to miss having a slice of Shaker Lemon Pie, the most popular item on the menu.

For the ultimate Pleasant Hill experience, enjoy an overnight stay in one of the 13 historic buildings that make up The Inn at Shaker Village. Guests can relax in a comfortably appointed room, suite or private cottage, each with distinct character and beautiful views.

However you choose to experience Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill, you’ll leave feeling inspired and with a greater understanding of how the past plays an important role in our lives today.

Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill 3501 Lexington Road

Harrodsburg

859.734.5411

shakervillageky.org

FORT HARROD STATE PARK

The centerpiece of Harrodsburg is the full-scale replica of the fort that was built by James Harrod in 1774.

Huge stockade walls made of logs enclose the cabins and blockhouses. From April to October, interpreters in period clothing perform pioneer tasks such as woodworking, weaving, gunsmithing and blacksmithing.

This park is home to the Lincoln Marriage Temple, which protects the cabin where Abraham

Lincoln’s parents were married.

While you are there, stop by the mansion museum, an 1830s Greek revival home with artifacts from Native Americans as well as relics of the Civil War.

The huge Osage orange tree outside the fort dates back to the late 1800s and is unofficially the largest and oldest tree of its kind in the nation. It is a giant mix of twisted branches close to the ground, so it is perfect for climbing and usually is full of kids.

BEAUMONT INN

A true landmark in the Harrodsburg area, Beaumont Inn is the grande dame of Central Kentucky, welcoming guests for lodging and dining, or to partake in bourbon cocktails.

Currently run by fifth-generation members of the Dedman family, it is the oldest family-run inn in the Commonwealth.

The main building was constructed as a school for young ladies in the 1840s and became an inn around 1919. This building, an example of Greek Revival architecture, is on the National Register of Historic Places. The pillared entrance and welcoming front porch introduce the warm and

cozy vibe felt throughout the antique-filled lobby and guest rooms.

The Dedman family history includes a stint as whiskey-makers, as they distilled Kentucky Owl Bourbon before Prohibition. In a nod to those roots, The Old Owl Tavern and The Owl’s Nest offer 100 different bourbons and a cuisine that covers all palates.

Modern-day appetizers, salads and burgers, as well as Southern-inspired “yellow-legged” fried chicken, the Beaumont Inn Hot Brown, and shrimp and grits are just a few of the options. Follow up with a slice of Beaumont Inn’s orange-lemon cake à la mode or bread pudding with bourbon sauce.

The Main Inn

Goddard Hall

THE JAMES HARROD TRUST

As the first permanent English settlement west of the Allegheny Mountains, Harrodsburg began with basic log-and-mud structures that provided shelter to the brave pioneers who arrived and stayed.

Despite the hardships of the times, the town grew beyond the walls of the fort. As more settlers arrived, homes and buildings were constructed by newcomers with knowledge of architectural styles such as Greek Revival, Victorian and Georgian. Each of these styles is tied to different eras in history and represents the cultural and historical significance of the times.

In 2000, following the loss of some of these treasured community structures, a group of concerned residents created The James Harrod Trust Inc. The organization works to preserve, and sometimes restore, buildings that help tell the story of the town’s roots.

The Trust has saved or helped restore about 20 buildings in Mercer County. It helps owners learn more about their properties, supplies guidance or funds to owners in the restoration process, and works to save structures from being demolished. Members of the James Harrod Trust know the value of the area’s heritage.

Many downtown buildings date back to the 1880s, and three streets have been recognized for their importance in history by being included in the National Register of Historic Places. The Trust has created walking and driving tours to share its knowledge with visitors.

Go to jamesharrodtrust.org for information about the free tours, complete with photos and directions. On the tours, visitors will find information about the architecture of each building, its historical significance, and the people who used it, whether it be a home, church or public space.

The Curry House on 414 North Main Street dates back to the mid-19th century.

OLD FORT HARROD

A year to celebrate 100 !

2024 is a special time as Kentucky State Parks not only reaches its 100th year, but one of its four original parks also celebrates 250 years since its founding. On June 16, 1774 James Harrod and his men were the first to map out “Harrods Town,” becoming Kentucky’s oldest city. Visit and help the park commemorate this very special place with some special events throughout the year.

Speaking of milestones, the 40th year for Picnic in the Park will continue every Friday in July with free live entertainment. Bring a lunch and enjoy musicians, magicians and balladeers to keep your feet tapping as you dine under the expansive limbs of our big ole’ tree.

To help get into the spirit of the observance, the park, along with Friends of Fort Harrod, is proud to be producing the 10th season of James Harrod: e Battle For Kentucky. is exciting drama will be preformed every Friday and Saturday in July of 2024 under the stars in our amphitheater. Tickets are $10 for some humor, dancing, danger and lots of drama as the story of Harrodsburg’s founding comes to life.

e annual Settlement & Raid is June 13-16 along with other 250th celebration festivities.

Years

Pioneer Days of Mercer County returns to Old Fort Harrod State Park August 15–18 with over 100 vendors, live entertainment, food trucks, cra vendors, beer tent, kids activities and inflatables. Add this long standing Harrodsburg tradition to your Kentucky bucket list.

September 20–22 the Kentucky Heritage Jazz Festival returns to the park is festival brings in some of the best Jazz musicians from across the country for three days of memorable jazz, with food and drinks available. Just bring your lawn chair to this FREE event!

e Haunted Frontier returns October 25, 26, 30 & 31. is haunted experience takes place in the creepy darkness of the James Harrod Amphitheatre and is a Harrodsburg favorite.

Every day is special at the fort! Visit parks.ky.gov to check our schedule and come mingle with the cra speople who bring to life pioneer Kentucky.

#kystateparks100

BRIGHT LEAF GOLF RESORT

Bright Leaf Golf Resort is located in the heart of the Bluegrass and offers stay-and-play golf packages.

The resort consists of 27 regulation holes, a 9-hole lighted par-3 course, 85 hotel rooms and 10 villa suites, the 19th Hole Restaurant, an outdoor pool and a health club. Named for the property’s former

life as a tobacco farm, the resort has been familyowned since 1963.

Bright Leaf offers a place where golfers can experience the beauty of country courses, the warmth of Southern hospitality, and all the rich history and culture Harrodsburg has to offer. It has been a favorite destination for golfers for more than 60 years.

Bright Leaf Golf Resort

1742 Danville Road

Harrodsburg

859.734.5481

brightleafgolfresort.com

info@brightleafgolfresort.com

KENTUCKY DEPARTMENT OF PARKS

PARKS – FORT HARROD STATE PARK

Herrington Lake was formed with the construction of Dix Dam on the Dix River in the 1920s. Although it originally was created to mitigate flooding and provide hydroelectricity, the result was a recreational gem for Central Kentucky.

This 32-mile-long lake is perfect for boating and fishing, and its 325 miles of shoreline are dotted with marinas and beautiful homes.

250TH ANNIVERSARY DOCUMENTARY

When producer and director Michael Breeding was asked to make a documentary for Harrodsburg’s 250th anniversary, he knew he had his work cut out for him, but he loved the challenge.

“How do you squeeze 250 years into an hour?” Breeding asked. “Well, you know you can’t fit everything in, but you have to do enough to give sort of a feeling and a flair and a tone for what this county is all about.”

After two years of working with the Harrodsburg Historical Society, the Mercer County Library, the Harrodsburg/Mercer County Tourist Commission and the Mercer County Chamber, as well as collecting hundreds of old photographs, interviews and video shoots, Breeding will premiere the documentary to the public on June 11 at Mercer County High School.

Breeding has produced several documentaries, including The Keeneland Legacy: A Thoroughbred Tradition; The Kentucky Governor’s Mansion, which was narrated by Diane Sawyer; and Dreamers and Doers: VOICES of Kentucky Women

Breeding worked at Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill for 14 years “in a previous life,” so telling the story of Harrodsburg and Mercer County comes easily.

“This community cared very early about saving their history,” Breeding said. “[And] saving their history is sort of a recurring theme in the film.”

The film opens not with the founding of Harrodsburg on June 16, 1774, but with a look at the land’s first settlers some 12,000 years ago.

Narrator Robert Clothworthy, who is the voice of several documentaries, including Ancient Aliens and Oak Island on The History Channel, describes the importance of the region’s first inhabitants: “These people were the first to explore this land, the first to raise families, and the first to build homes …” Clothworthy says in the film.

From there, viewers learn about founder James Harrod, Lizzie Hardin, George Speaks, Fort Harrod, the Harrodsburg Tankers and so much more.

Above, Harrodburg town plat from 1786.

Anniversary Documentary

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“They are all part of a common mosaic and help fulfill a common purpose. Silenced by time, their combined lifespans form but a tiny thread of the unfolding story of Harrodsburg and Mercer County,” Clothworthy says in the film.

Breeding said his documentary portrays facts and historical figures, but he wants viewers to take away much more than that.

“This community really has done an amazing job at saving their past and saving their history and saving their heritage,” he said. “It sends a strong message that these sites, these archival materials, these photographs, these objects, these artifacts, these newspapers … these are all very important today and tomorrow.”

Top, actors in a scene of the documentary filmed at Beaumont Inn; above, Greta Ratliff portrayed Rachel Jackson in the film; right, a portrait of Rachel Jackson; far right, Breeding’s uncle, Joe Hamilton, as Abraham Lincoln in a scene with Debra Faulk.

“This community really has done an amazing job at saving their past and saving their history and saving their heritage,”

Michael Breeding

Top, Mercer County’s historic Moreland House; above, Jan Pearce of Lexington Vintage Dance in a dance scene; left, James Harrod, portrayed by David Coleman with Russell Morris as Black Fish.

Filmmaker Michael Breeding