William Whitley House State Historic Site

The William Whitley House is a brick residence in Crab Orchard with walls two feet thick and strategically positioned high windows. The construction combines practical defensive features with Georgian design elements typical of early American frontier building.

Built between 1787 and 1794, this was the first brick house constructed in Kentucky during the early American frontier settlement period. It stands as important evidence of the technical skills and ambitions of the pioneers who built here.

The interior displays hand-carved eagles on the main staircase and extensive woodwork in walnut and pine throughout. These details reflect the wealth and sophistication that early settlers brought to the frontier.

The site offers guided tours through the house, walking trails, and educational programs about frontier life. Visitors should allow time to explore both the building and the surrounding grounds with their historical features.

The property includes Sportsman's Hill with a horse racing track built in 1788 that runs counter-clockwise. This track was the first west of the Appalachians and shows how organized sporting events reached remote frontier communities.

Location: Kentucky

Inception: 1787

GPS coordinates: 37.46806,-84.55000

Latest update: December 10, 2025 20:03