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Historic house · Bardstown, Kentucky
My Old Kentucky Home State Park
State park with the Federal Hill mansion, from the early 19th century, associated with the song My Old Kentucky Home by Stephen Foster, the official state song of Kentucky.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About My Old Kentucky Home State Park
Federal Hill is a brick mansion built in the early 19th century by the Rowan family on the outskirts of Bardstown. Local tradition says a visit by Stephen Foster, a composer and relative of the owners, inspired the song My Old Kentucky Home, published in 1853 and later adopted as the state’s official song.
The house is seen on guided tours, with guides wearing period costume, who show the furnished rooms and tell the history of the family and the enslaved people who worked on the property. The original song addressed this reality, and the lyrics sung at official ceremonies were changed in the 20th century.
The state park around the house has lawns, gardens, a golf course, and an amphitheater where a musical about Foster’s life is usually presented in summer.
The song is played before the start of the Kentucky Derby in Louisville every year.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About an hour, with the guided tour.
Best time
On spring and autumn mornings. In summer, the amphitheater may have evening performances.
How to get there
It’s on the east exit of Bardstown, about 2 km from the town center by car.
Tip
Guided tours depart at set times: check the park’s website for schedules.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about My Old Kentucky Home State Park
What is My Old Kentucky Home?
It’s a song by Stephen Foster from 1853 and the official song of Kentucky. The Federal Hill mansion in Bardstown is associated with the composition.
Is the Federal Hill mansion only visited with a guide?
Yes, the interior is only open on guided tours at scheduled times. The park gardens can be explored freely.
Where is My Old Kentucky Home located?
On the east exit of Bardstown, about 2 km from the town center.