Frankfort in Franklin County, Kentucky — The American South (East South Central)
The Kentucky River Today
Recreation and Resource
Photographed By Craig Doda, March 20, 2022
1. The Kentucky River Today Marker
Steamboats no longer pass through the Kentucky River locks; log rafts no longer
splash over the dams; and showboats no longer bring music and drama to small Kentucky towns, but the Kentucky River remains of vital importance to the people of central Kentucky. The river is the main source of fresh water for Kentucky River valley towns from Beattyville north and west-most notably for the city of Lexington. But it is an endangered resource. The river absorbs mine run - off, sewage, trash, and all manner of other pollutants. The locks and dams essential to the maintenance of freshwater pools are growing old, mechanically decrepit, structurally weak, and very expensive to maintain. The river has been popular for decades with recreational boaters in houseboats, speedboats, and fishing boats. But the Kentucky River is becoming inaccessible as the locks fail, and it is becoming shallow as the channel silts up. The Kentucky River
is one of the most historic and beautiful rivers in
the United States, but it presents many challenges
day and future Americans.
Photo caption: Mid-20th Century photograph of Frankfort citizens on the frozen
Photographed By Craig Doda, March 20, 2022
2. The Kentucky River Today Marker
this page online
Topics. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Waterways & Vessels.
Location. 38° 12.148′ N, 84° 52.847′ W. Marker is in Frankfort, Kentucky, in Franklin County. Marker is on Wilkinson Boulevard, on the right when traveling south. Located in River View Park close to the Kentucky River. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Frankfort KY 40601, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Bridge Abutments (here, next to this marker); The Kentucky (within shouting distance of this marker); Capital on the Kentucky (within shouting distance of this marker); The Kentucky River Authority (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); Franks Ford, Fishtrap Island, and Craw (about 300 feet away); Farm Entryway and Pillar (about 300 feet away); Turnpike Era Fence (about 400 feet away); The R. T. Brooks Pavilion (about 400 feet away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Frankfort.
Photographed By Craig Doda, March 20, 2022
3. The Kentucky River Today Marker
Credits. This page was last revised on March 25, 2022. It was originally submitted on March 25, 2022, by Craig Doda of Napoleon, Ohio. This page has been viewed 45 times since then. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on March 25, 2022, by Craig Doda of Napoleon, Ohio. • Mark Hilton was the editor who published this page.
