Frankfort, Ky (August 19, 2021) – The National Park Service (NPS) recently awarded $180,000 to Old Mulkey Meetinghouse State Historic Site to support rehabilitation efforts.
The awarded grant is a part of $7 million in the inaugural round of funding for the Semiquincentennial Grant Program commemorating the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States. Created by Congress in 2020 and funded through the Historic Preservation Fund, this round of grants will support 17 cultural resource preservation projects across 12 states.
“Our Kentucky State Park Historic Sites not only preserve history but introduce new visitors to the rich heritage of the commonwealth,” said Tourism, Arts and Heritage Secretary Mike Berry. “This grant continues our parks’ efforts in preserving the past while showcasing the authentic stories captured throughout history.”
“We are honored to receive this grant from National Park Services,” said Kentucky State Parks Commissioner Meyer. “History enthusiasts travel far and wide to visit our historic sites, and this critical funding will greatly improve guests’ experiences at the Old Mulkey Meetinghouse.”
Old Mulkey was designated as a Kentucky State Shrine in 1931, the ninth site to be accepted into the Kentucky State Park system. Now known as a Kentucky State Historic Site, the park’s focus is the Meetinghouse. This 218-year-old structure was the original home of Mill Creek Baptist Church and was led by John Mulkey from 1773 to 1844.
The Meetinghouse today is the oldest “freestanding” log church in the commonwealth. In addition to the Meetinghouse, visitors can enjoy the pioneer-era cemetery, hiking trail, playground, picnic areas and the park library, which contains genealogical information related to the congregation members and local religious history.
Kentucky is home to 45 state parks, including 17 resort parks and 13 golf courses. For more information about Kentucky State Parks, visit parks.ky.gov.
For the latest Kentucky State Parks updates, follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.