The Old Frankfort State Hospital and School Entrance, nestled in the heart of Frankfort, Kentucky, is a captivating piece of history that transports visitors back to a time when education and care for the less fortunate were of utmost importance. Established by Governor Magoffin in 1860, this remarkable institution was originally known as the Kentucky Training Home, with its mission being to provide education and training for children with intellectual disabilities within the state.
As you approach the entrance of the Old Frankfort State Hospital and School, your eyes are drawn to the lone structure that remains: the Jones Building on Glenns Creek Road. This historic site is a testament to the resilience and determination of those who once sought solace within its walls, as well as an enduring reminder of the importance of education for all members of society.
Over time, the institution underwent several name changes, transitioning from Kentucky Training Home in 1945 to Frankfort State Hospital & School in 1963. The legacy of these names echoes throughout the hallowed halls, bearing witness to the countless lives that were impacted by the dedicated staff and educators who worked tirelessly to provide a better future for generations of vulnerable children.
As you explore the grounds of this historic site, you may come across the cemetery located near the Commonwealth Office of Technology on Glenns Creek Road. This solemn resting place serves as a humbling reminder of the lives that were lost within its walls, and a testament to the enduring impact of the Old Frankfort State Hospital and School Entrance on the lives of countless individuals.
As you venture deeper into this historic location, allow your imagination to take flight as you picture the bustling halls filled with eager students, diligent teachers, and dedicated staff members who all played a role in shaping this remarkable institution. As you listen to the wind rustling through the leaves and imagine the laughter of children long gone, youll come to understand that the Old Frankfort State Hospital and School Entrance is more than just a relic of the past; its a living, breathing monument to the power of education and the enduring spirit of hope.