Kentucky Department of Parks

Constitution Square
State Historic Site Constitution Square was the site of a series of important events in Kentucky's history.

Explore Kentucky's History

Constitution Square was the site of a series of important events in Kentucky's history: the ten constitutional conventions that led to Kentucky's statehood. Frontier statesmen who lived in what was then the Kentucky County of Virginia struggled more than eight years for independence. Finally, on June 1, 1792, Kentucky became the fifteenth state in the Union and Isaac Shelby, a Revolutionary War hero and convention delegate, was named the first governor of the new Commonwealth.

Isaac Shelby State Historic Site

Isaac Shelby (1750-1826), Kentucky's first and fifth governor, acquired land south of Danville as payment for a surveying job. He achieved fame for his service in the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812, and he remained active in national political affairs until his death at the age of 76. He is buried at his estate, "Traveler’s Rest." The cemetery is on Knob Lick Pike, 5.5 miles south of Danville on US 127.

Picnic tables are located on the park grounds. Constitution Square is open year-round. No admission charged for self-guided tours. Guided tours are available for a fee and by appointment only.

Things To Do

Quality Kentucky products offered in the gift shop reflect the history of the site and Kentucky State Parks. The uniqueness of the inventory, which consists primarily of Kentucky foods, books, souvenirs, music and handcrafts create a great shopping experience.

 

Picnic tables are located on the park grounds.

Constitution Square is open year-round. No admission charged for self-guided tours. Guided tours are available for a fee and by appointment only.

 

Gift Card

Featured Event

Constitution Square Festival
9/19/2008 to 9/21/2008

Kentucky's historic past, 1780-1820, can be seen at this festival which features living history encampments and craft demonstrations, 80 exhibitors showcasing the best of Kentucky's arts and crafts, strolling musicians, carriage rides, food, entertainment featuring Kentucky musicians, children's activities and guided tours of a historic house and museum. The festival is set among the original structures on the grounds where Kentucky's forefathers met and signed Kentucky's Constitution. Exhibitor registration fee: 110.00 and registration deadline: 7/15/08. Event times: 9/19/08 - 10am to 8pm, 9/20/08 - 10am to 10pm and 9/21/08 - 11am to 5pm.

More Information

Contact Information

Constitution Square State Historic Site
134 South Second Street
Danville, KY 40422-1880
859-239-7089
Park Manager: Brenda Willoughby