About Us
Preserving Kentucky’s First Settlement for Future Generations
We are a community‑driven nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting, preserving, and promoting Old Fort Harrod, the site of Kentucky’s first permanent settlement founded in 1774. Our mission is to protect this irreplaceable landmark, share its stories, and ensure that the legacy of Kentucky’s earliest pioneers continues to inspire visitors of all ages.
For decades, Old Fort Harrod State Park has stood as a powerful reminder of the courage, resilience, and determination that shaped early American frontier life. The Friends of Fort Harrod work alongside park staff, historians, volunteers, and supporters to keep that history alive through restoration projects, educational programs, events, and community outreach.
Our Mission
To honor, preserve, and interpret the historical and cultural legacy of Old Fort Harrod by:
- Supporting historical preservation of the fort, monuments, and artifacts
- Providing educational opportunities for students, teachers, families, and history enthusiasts
- Promoting community engagement through events, reenactments, and heritage activities
- Enhancing the visitor experience with improved facilities, programming, and resources
- Ensuring the stories of Harrodsburg’s founders, pioneers, and historical figures remain accessible to future generations
What We Do
Preservation & Restoration
We help fund and support ongoing preservation at Old Fort Harrod — from maintaining cabins and blockhouses to ensuring the park’s historic monuments remain protected and accessible.
Education & Interpretation
We develop and promote programs that bring frontier history to life, including living‑history demonstrations, guided tours, educational materials, and school outreach initiatives.
Events & Community Involvement
From Pioneer Days and reenactments to special lectures and seasonal programs, we help create experiences that connect people with the fort, the land, and the stories that began here.
Advocacy & Support
We proudly serve as ambassadors for Old Fort Harrod, raising awareness of its historical importance and encouraging public and private support for the park.
Why Our Work Matters
Old Fort Harrod is more than a historic site — it's the birthplace of Kentucky’s story. By preserving this landmark, we protect:
- A tangible link to America’s westward expansion
- A living classroom that illuminates 18th‑century frontier life
- A community treasure central to Harrodsburg’s identity
- A legacy of exploration, courage, and perseverance
When you support the Friends of Fort Harrod, you help ensure that this heritage remains vibrant, well‑preserved, and shared with generations to come.
Join Us
Whether you’re a history lover, a local resident, an educator, or a visitor discovering Kentucky for the first time, we welcome you to become a Friend of Fort Harrod. Together, we can keep history alive.