The Division of Historic Properties (DHP) is responsible for the preservation, conservation, and cyclical maintenance of The New State Capitol, The Executive Mansion, The Old Governor's Mansion, Berry Mansion, and the Vest-Lindsey House in
Frankfort, Kentucky. as mandated by KRS 42.014, KRS 11.026 and 11.027, as well as other Finance-owned historic properties. The Division of Historic Properties works in accordance with the Secretary of Interior Standards while always maintaining an assurance to manage our resources wisely, as stewards of the Commonwealth's assets. The division is responsible for inventory and maintenance of state-owned furnishings, artifacts, and objects of art, while also documenting annual conservation needs and selecting the most qualified restoration professionals to secure the Commonwealth's historic treasures.
The Director of the Division of Historic Properties serves as State Curator and Secretary of the Historic Properties Advisory Commission (HPAC); a body statutorily responsible for the management and conservation efforts of the New State Capitol, the Executive Mansion and the Old Governor's Mansion. The division advises and consults with other state agencies concerning preservation and maintenance projects at other State-owned historic sites.
The Division of Historic Properties is also responsible for the scheduling and management of meetings and special events such as weddings, receptions, and dinners at the Berry Mansion, a premier event venue in
Franklin County, and the Vest-Lindsey House. Historic Properties is also responsible for the effective management of events at the Capitol building and grounds, balancing public use with preservation of our landmark Capitol building.
DHP Objectives
The Division of Historic Properties is driven by our commitment to excellence. Our main objectives are:
- Coordination of the preservation and conservation of Finance-owned historic buildings
- Maintaining an accurate inventory and adequate insurance on all fine art, decorative arts and antiques within historic properties state statute
- Effectively managing public use and preservation with special event and needs at historically significant properties under our agency's purview
2024 Kentucky Derby Poster
To celebrate the 150th Kentucky Derby, Governor Andy Beshear and First Lady Britainy Beshear have chosen Kentucky artist Ken Burney to design the 2024 Governor’s Derby Celebration Poster. Burney’s inspiration for this year’s poster is to honor the Black jockeys who won 11 of the first 17 Kentucky Derbys. The poster depicts Isaac Murphy riding Buchanan in 1884, Oliver Lewis riding Aristides in 1875 and Isaac Lewis riding Montrose in 1887.