Southern Classicism in Kentucky’s Bluegrass Region
April 14 – 18, 2010
Arranged by Classical Excursions
As the United States was gaining independence at the end of the 18th century, pioneers were settling in the Bluegrass Region of Kentucky. The area offered rich soil, abundant land, and a temperate climate. Lexington emerged as the commercial and economic center of a region of great wealth, despite the decision to make nearby Frankfort the capital of the state in 1792.
Kentucky resembled Virginia with its large farms, formal gardens, and grand mansions—all radiating from Lexington. The genteel residents of the region remained current to East Coast fashions from dress to architecture. Horse breeding and racing quickly became an integral part of life in the bluegrass as horses were imported from Virginia and England.
Today, the Bluegrass Region still retains much of its picturesque natural beauty of gently rolling hills. There are many surviving examples of Georgian, Federal and Greek Revival architecture from the 18th and 19th centuries and newer classical architecture of the 20th century in the 15 counties that presently define the region.
The Institute of Classical Architecture & Classical America, in collaboration with the Blue Grass Trust for Historic Preservation, is pleased to announce a spring tour of Southern Classicism in Kentucky’s Bluegrass Region April 14 – 18, 2010, a unique excursion of discovery of fabulous classical architecture and interiors. The itinerary will range from the Pope Villa, a rare surviving residence by the great Benjamin Latrobe and now owned by the Blue Grass Trust, to Pin Oak Farm, one of two houses in America designed by England’s eminent classicist Quinlan Terry and an elegant private residence by the New York architectural firm of Fairfax and Sammons.
An abundance of residences and country estates will be opened to us along with privately hosted get-togethers. Participants will have the unique experience of visiting during Lexington’s spring racing season the famed Keeneland Racetrack, whose club house was decorated by the legendary Billy Baldwin. Accommodations for four nights have been reserved at the Gratz Park Inn, a charmingly decorated boutique hotel.
For further information contact Classical Excursions Director Tom Hayes at (413) 243-4155 or tom@classicalexcursions.com.