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Versailles, KY

Frequently asked questions

Versailles, KY

Versailles is a home rule-class city in Woodford County, Kentucky, United States. It lies 13 miles (21 kilometers) by road west of Lexington and is part of the Lexington-Fayette Metropolitan Statistical Area. Versailles has a population of 9,316 according to 2017 census estimates. It is the county seat of Woodford County. The city's name is pronounced differently from the French pronunciation of the royal city of the same name near Paris.

Versailles was founded on June 23, 1792, on 80 acres (32 hectares) of land owned by Hezekiah Briscoe, at the time only a child. His guardian, Marquis Calmes, named the town after Versailles, France, in honor of General Lafayette, a family friend and hero of the American Revolution. Located in what became known as the Bluegrass Region of Kentucky, where farmers also raised thoroughbred horses and other high-quality livestock, the city was officially incorporated on February 13, 1837. It was briefly occupied during the American Civil War by both Confederate and Union forces.

In 1870, black residents of Versailles took part in a demonstration against police violence after a white officer struck a black man with his pistol. Demonstrators formed armed pickets and guarded roads in and out of Versailles. Two of the leaders were subsequently lynched by a local militia company.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 2.8 square miles (7.3 km²), all land.

As of the census of 2000, there were 7,511 people, 3,160 households, and 2,110 families residing in the city. The population density was 2,668.7 per square mile (1,030.4/km²). There were 3,330 housing units at an average density of 1,183.2 per square mile (456.8/km²). The city’s racial makeup was 96.18% White, 0.67% African American, 0.15% Native American, 0.35% Asian, 0.01% Pacific Islander, 1.34% from other races, and 1.30% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 4.29% of the population.

Versailles focuses on health and wellness. Explore the parks, facilities, and programs the Versailles Parks and Recreation Department offers. These spaces provide opportunities for outdoor activities such as walking, jogging, sports, and picnicking. Join local fitness centers and gyms to participate in exercise programs, fitness classes, and strength training. Some popular options include Workout Anytime, Falling Springs, and Agility Gym. Discover the walking and biking trails in and around Versailles, such as the Woodford County Park Trail and Knucklehead MTB Trail. These trails offer opportunities for outdoor exercise and enjoyment of nature.

Top sites in Versailles, KY are Bluegrass Scenic Railroad and Museum, The Kentucky Castle, Eckert's Orchard, and Woodford Theatre.

Population: 10,656 (2024). ZIP codes: 40383, 40384, 40386. Area code: 859. Elevation: 912 ft (278 m). Area: 6.35 sq mi (16.44 km²).

FAQs

What is the name of the castle in Versailles, Kentucky?

The Kentucky Castle is a unique property with a storied history. Previously known as Castle Post, Martin Castle, and the Versailles Castle, this 110-acre estate is located just outside of Lexington in Versailles, Kentucky. Rex Martin and his wife Caroline Bogaert Martin began construction on the castle in 1969, after they were inspired by the beautiful architecture of Europe during their honeymoon.

Why is Versailles, KY pronounced differently?

Versailles is a home rule-class city in Woodford County, Kentucky, United States. It lies 13 miles (21 kilometers) by road west of Lexington and is part of the Lexington-Fayette Metropolitan Statistical Area. It is the county seat of Woodford County. The city's name is pronounced /vərˈseɪlz/ vər-SAYLZ, an anglicization different from the French pronunciation of the royal city of the same name near Paris.

Is Versailles, KY a good place to live?

Living in Versailles offers residents a sparse suburban feel and most residents own their homes. Many families and young professionals live in Versailles and residents tend to lean conservative. The public schools in Versailles are highly rated.

Sources

Wikipedia

City of Versailles

Versailles Parks and Recreation Department 

Workout Anytime

Falling Springs 

Agility Gym

Woodford County Park Trail 

Knucklehead MTB Trail

Bluegrass Scenic Railroad and Museum

The Kentucky Castle

Eckert's Orchard

Woodford Theatre

Niche

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