Statehood Day of Kentucky is a holiday celebrated annually on June 1. People from all around the state gather on this day to honor and observe the state’s admission to the Union of States. It occurred on the same day in 1792 and became the 15th state to do so.
History of Statehood Day in Kentucky
The area of Fincastle County, west of the mountain range stretching to the river, antecedently called Bluegrass State territory, was broken off as its own county of Bluegrass State in December 1776 by the associate act of the Virginia General Assembly. The county courthouse was named Harrod’s city, or Oldtown. In 1780, the county was partitioned off into Thomas Jefferson, Lincoln, and Fayette Counties; however, the District of Bluegrass State remained answerable whilst new counties were fashioned.Residents of the region petitioned the General Assembly and the Confederate Congress for statehood and separation from Virginia on multiple occasions. Between 1784 and 1792, Danville hosted 10 constitutional conventions. In early July 1788, a petition with Virginia’s signature was presented to the Confederate Congress. Unfortunately, it was only a day after news of New Hampshire’s crucial ninth ratification of the proposed Constitution, effectively cementing it as the United States’ new governing framework. In light of this development, Congress decided that admitting Kentucky to the Union would be “inadvisable,” as it could only do it “under the Articles of Confederation,” not “under the Constitution,” and thus rejected to do so.Virginia agreed with Kentucky’s statehood yet again in December 1789. On February 1791, the United States Congress gave its assent. Vermont’s petition for statehood was approved by Congress a little while later. On June 1, 1792, K.Y. was admitted to the Union and became the 15th state. Isaac Shelby, a Virginia military veteran, was appointed the state’s first-ever governor.
Statehood Day in Kentucky timeline
The first petition is signed, but cementing it is not advised.
A second attempt at a petition is done.
Congress approves the second signed petition.
Kentucky officially joins the Union as its 15th state.
Statehood Day in Kentucky FAQs
What states celebrate Statehood Day?
Kentucky isn’t the only state to celebrate Statehood Day. Tennessee and Hawaii also hold celebrations and events.
Is Kentucky a good place to live?
Yes, it is. If you’re seeking economical housing and a low cost of living, Kentucky is an ideal choice.
Are there tornadoes in Kentucky?
Hoosier Alley encompasses Kentucky, and the peak storm season occurs in April and May. Every year, there is an average of 21 tornadoes.
How to Observe Statehood Day in Kentucky
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Set up a flag
Take out your Kentucky flag and display it on your porch. Let people see your support for this state on its Statehood Day!
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Travel to Kentucky
This is the ideal time to travel to Kentucky! You'll learn a lot more about the state's history and see some of America's most interesting sites.
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Visit a museum
During Statehood Day celebrations, museums provide a variety of events. It's also an excellent time to learn about the region's history!
5 Awesome Facts About Kentucky That Will Blow Your Mind
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First sign of electricity
Thoman Edison displayed over 4,500 copies of his new invention, the incandescent light, in Kentucky in 1883!
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Note-takers
All “Post-It” notes are produced in Kentucky, which means that a good part of your reminders has at some point set foot there.
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Home of the Corvette
You have definitely been lucky enough to spot a Corvette out on the streets — did you know that it was completely assembled in Kentucky?
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The first Washington
Many states around the U.S. have cities named Washington, but Washington, Kentucky was the first one to be called that.
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Man-made lakes
When traveling around Kentucky you’ll find many lakes, but did you know that only three of them are natural?
Why Statehood Day in Kentucky is Important
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It celebrates independence
Holidays that celebrate independence are always fun since they remind us of our freedom. We love any day that celebrates freedom!
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It unites people
Federal holidays bring people from all across the country together to celebrate. We appreciate being able to see as many people as possible.
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It’s all about bravery
We celebrate the brave men and women that lobbied for change and independence. What’s not to love about that?
Statehood Day in Kentucky dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | June 1 | Thursday |
| 2024 | June 1 | Saturday |
| 2025 | June 1 | Sunday |
| 2026 | June 1 | Monday |
| 2027 | June 1 | Tuesday |
