Governor Andy Beshear was joined by a host of state officials and past and present state park officials and employees to help kick off the 100 year celebration for Kentucky State Parks Monday in Frankfort.
During a ceremony in front of the old State Capitol in Frankfort Governor Beshear saluted Kentucky State Parks and the staff that operate them for the impact they have on the state.
Beshear said state parks have also been a lifeline for many Kentuckians during recent disasters.
Tourism, Arts, and Heritage Cabinet Secretary Lindy Casebier said Kentucky State Parks are vital for tourism and economic development.
Parks Commissioner Russ Meyer every park offers a unique experience and contributes to the state and the communities where they are located.
Deputy Parks Commissioner Ron Vanover noted the passion of those who operate the parks.
On hand for the celebration was the founder of Kentucky State Parks Williard Jilson, who was portrayed by My Old Kentucky Home Curator Richard Blanton.
State Parks were founded in 1924 when the Kentucky General Assembly appropriated $50,000 to begin the purchase of land to form the first state parks in the commonwealth. Pine Mountain was the original state park and was named Cumberland State Park. The name was changed after Cumberland Falls became a state park in 1938.
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