Historic Map - Frankfort, KY - 1871

View of Frankfort, Franklin County, K.Y., 1871 / drawn & published by A. Ruger.

This panoramic print of Frankfort, Kentucky was drawn by Albert Ruger and published by Ehrgott & Krebs Lith. Co. in 1871. Frankfort was established at a good crossing site along the Kentucky River. The shallow crossing had been utilized by Daniel Boone in the blazing of his famous trail from Cumberland Gap to Boonesborough.

The site was found to be rich in minerals including lead. Sulfuric springs scattered throughout the region brought many to the area in need of the hydrotherapeutic benefits. Potter’s and fire clay were abundant in the valley and the dove-colored marble found along the bed of the river was harvested and used for building purposes including the capitol building.

Frankfort was named capital when Kentucky earned its statehood and county seat of Franklin County when it was organized. It is situated on both sides of the river. A lock and dam built one mile below Frankfort afforded water power for manufacturers who settled here. The first Water Works system in Kentucky was established in Frankfort in 1804 when wooden pipes were laid from Cedar Cove spring to furnish fresh water to the community and state penitentiary.

Farmers of the region grew corn, wheat, rye, barley, hemp and tobacco for exportation. Cattle, horses, mules, sheep and hogs were also raised on a large scale for market.

The image, looking south east, includes labeled streets, buildings, bridges and railroad routes. Steamboat activity is portrayed along the river. It features inset illustrations of the State Capitol and Public School.

Features numbered references to the following locations:

• State Capitol.
• State Arsenal.
• State Prison.
• State Feeble Minded School.
• Court House.
• City School.
• Market House.
• L. F. & L. R. R. Depot.
• Cemetery.
• Hermitage Distillery.
• Daniel Boone Distillery.
• Pepper Distillery.
• Baptist Church.
• Episcopal Church.
• Methodist Church.
• Presbyterian Church.
• Christian Church.
• R. Catholic Church.
• Colored Methodist Church.