Bardstown Historic District

Bardstown Historic District is a neighborhood spanning 26 blocks with nearly 280 buildings from the late 1700s and early 1800s. The homes display Federal and Georgian architecture featuring brick facades, wooden porches, and shutters arranged along paved streets.

William Bard donated land in 1788 for a courthouse, which led to the town's founding and set it apart from its original name of Salem. The settlement quickly grew into an administrative hub, drawing families who built homes and started businesses there.

The district drew Catholic immigrants in the 1800s and became a spiritual center for this community. The buildings and street patterns still reflect this strong religious presence that shaped how people gathered and lived together here.

The area is easy to explore on foot, with a clear street grid that makes navigation simple. A visitor center in the former courthouse building offers guidance and information about the various homes and their stories.

During the Civil War, commanders on both sides set up headquarters in this district at different times, showing how strategic and contested this place was. Some buildings today still show marks from the military presence that passed through here.

Location: Bardstown

GPS coordinates: 37.81111,-85.46583

Latest update: December 12, 2025 17:42