ISSUE
Renaming of the Kentucky History Center
POSITION
Watch
In 2005 the Kentucky History Center was renamed The Thomas D. Clark Center for Kentucky History by an act of the state
legislature. Concern arose among members that the renaming was not appropriate since, at the time, Kentucky’s most eminent
historian, Thomas D. Clark, was not yet deceased. Historian Clark has since passed away.
Severe objection was raised over the manner in which the renaming occurred. The measure to accommodate the renaming was
attached to the State budget bill and passed by the legislature in the middle of the night, with no advance notice to the
public. In effect, members and the public were deprived of their voice in the matter.
Concerned Members have adopted a watch position in respect to Mr. Clark and remain watchful that any future renaming of
Kentucky institutions pertaining to history be conducted in an open forum with public participation.
