Kentucky is full of haunted lore and legend; visit any of the state’s historic sites and attractions, and you’re bound to hear a ghostly tale or two. In Frankfort, Kentucky’s Old Capitol Building is one of the most notoriously haunted in the state. This National Historic Landmark served as Kentucky’s capitol from 1830 to 1910, and its dramatic history and gothic architecture invite rumors of nefarious and otherworldly activity. Today, guests can take a nighttime tour of Kentucky’s Old Capitol Building, and see if the haunted rumors are true.
The capitol of the Commonwealth of Kentucky, Frankfort is a town with lots of history, and the Old State Capitol building is its ghostly epicenter.
Kaplansa/Wikipedia
From 1830-1910, it was the setting for lively political debates as lawmakers grappled with pressing (and polarizing) issues such as slavery and war.
Kentucky Historical Society/Facebook
Gideon Shryock, the Bluegrass State’s first native-born professionally trained architect, designed this stunning Greek Revival building, the third to have served as Kentucky’s seat of government.
Natalie Wright/Google Local
Today, the building has been restored to the way it looked in the early 1850s, and contains decor and features original to that time.
Brett Monroe/Google Local
But despite renovations, this gorgeous building still has many signs of the past, and is considered to be one of the most haunted places in Kentucky!
Kentucky Historical Society/Facebook
Indeed, the air inside the Old Capitol is thick with the weight of a ghostly history, something brave folks can explore during a nighttime tour of the building.
Brett Monroe/Google Local
During the one-hour tour, guests will explore this iconic Greek Revival edifice, hearing spooky stories from the Kentucky Historical Society Collections.
Natalie Wright/Google Local
Because this building’s tenure happened during one of the most contentious times in Kentucky history (the violence surrounding the 1900 gubernatorial election and subsequent death of William Goebel left the state on the brink of a civil war, in fact), ghost stories abound about the Old Capitol Building.
Kentucky Historical Society/Facebook
Mysterious shots have been reportedly heard in the small building at the rear of the Old Capitol building, which had been used as an arsenal for war artifacts.
Heng Yu/Google Local
In addition, a mahogany veneer chest in the building known as the “Conjure Chest” is said to be cursed. As many as 16 untimely deaths have been attributed to this piece of furniture, and the presence of these unfortunate souls can often be felt throughout the grounds.
Kevin Stewart/Google Local Come and take a tour of the Old Capitol Building, and see if you can feel the haunting weight of history here, too.
Do you think Kentucky’s Old Capitol Building is haunted? Would you take a tour of this historic site? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Kaplansa/Wikipedia
Kentucky Historical Society/Facebook
Natalie Wright/Google Local
Brett Monroe/Google Local
Heng Yu/Google Local
Kevin Stewart/Google Local
Come and take a tour of the Old Capitol Building, and see if you can feel the haunting weight of history here, too.
Looking for more creepy adventures in the Bluegrass? Pay a visit to Kentucky’s very own ghost town!
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
Address: Kentucky Old State Capitol Building, 300 W Broadway St, Frankfort, KY 40601, USA
