Membership is not required to establish a Kentucky Colonel Branch or to be listed in the Kentucky Colonels Handbook
This rare 1930 book could not be republished due to the fact that it is still protected under American copyright law until January 01, 2026. In May of 2024 one of four copies was found in a Kentucky Law Library which was submitted to the Sixth Circuit Court as evidence of the Kentucky Colonels Association and a Kentucky Colonels Club in Louisville prior to the emergence of the Honorable Order of Kentucky Colonels.
Originally published in 1930 this essential guide and directory disappeared from Kentucky Libraries in the 1970's leaving only four copies in university collections at Eastern Kentucky University, Morehead State University, the University of California in Los Angeles, and a copy at the University of Michigan. In May of 2024 we had the opportunity to review and copy the book from EKU, it was filled with a treasure trove of names and addresses of Kentucky Colonels scattered around the United States and we began researching the names listed within it to discover all we needed to know about the Kentucky Colonel.
Objective Description and Review
The 1930 Kentucky Colonels Handbook, compiled by the Kentucky Colonels Directory at the Brown Hotel in Louisville, served primarily as a directory of Kentucky Colonels. Its main features were:
Directory: A comprehensive list of names and addresses of Kentucky Colonels, categorized alphabetically. This was the core purpose of the Handbook, facilitating networking and connection among Colonels.
Foreword: A brief introduction emphasizing the importance of camaraderie and unity among Kentucky Colonels.
Essays: Short essays reflecting on the responsibilities, character, and historical context of the Kentucky Colonel. These essays, while insightful, were limited in scope and depth.
Poetry and Anecdotes: Inclusion of poems and anecdotes related to Kentucky and the Colonel tradition, adding a touch of local flavor and humor.
Government Officials: A list of Kentucky Governors, Senators, and Representatives, reflecting the connection between the Kentucky Colonel title and the state's political landscape.
Lack of Historical Depth: The Handbook provided minimal historical context or analysis of the Kentucky Colonel title's origins and evolution.
Limited Scope: It focused primarily on the directory aspect, with minimal exploration of the broader cultural significance and traditions associated with the title.
Narrow Audience: It was primarily intended for use by Kentucky Colonels themselves, lacking broader appeal for a public audience.
The Third Edition of the Kentucky Colonels Handbook has the opportunity to become a definitive resource on the Kentucky Colonel, appealing to both Colonels and the general public. Here's a vision of what it could include:
Comprehensive History: A detailed and well-researched history of the Kentucky Colonel title, tracing its origins back to the 18th century and exploring its evolution over time.
Cultural Significance: An in-depth analysis of the cultural significance of the Kentucky Colonel, its role in Kentucky society, and its connection to the state's identity and values.
Biographies of Prominent Colonels: Expanded biographical sketches of influential Kentucky Colonels throughout history, highlighting their contributions to the Commonwealth and beyond.
Traditions and Customs: A thorough exploration of the traditions and customs associated with the Kentucky Colonel title, including ceremonies, events, and social practices.
The Kentucky Colonel Oath: Inclusion of the historical Kentucky Colonel Oath, emphasizing its significance and connection to the values of the title. Once upon a time to become a Kentucky Governor you had to be a Kentucky Colonel.
Visual Appeal: Richly illustrated with historical photographs, documents, and artwork, making it visually engaging and informative.
Updated Directory: A modern and comprehensive directory of Kentucky Colonels, facilitating networking and connection in the digital age.
Personal Stories: A dedicated section for Kentucky Colonels to share their personal stories and experiences, creating a sense of community and shared identity.
Resources and Information: A guide to resources and organizations relevant to Kentucky Colonels, including historical societies, K3C initiatives, and opportunities for engagement.
Preservation of Legacy: A platform for Kentucky Colonels to document their contributions and ensure their legacy is preserved for future generations.
By incorporating these elements, the Third Edition of the Kentucky Colonels Handbook will become a valuable resource that:
Educates the public about the rich history and traditions of the Kentucky Colonel.
Empowers Kentucky Colonels to connect with their heritage and contribute to the ongoing legacy of the title.
Challenges the misinformation propagated by the HOKC and reclaims the authentic narrative of the Kentucky Colonel.
This vision for the Third Edition ensures that it becomes a cherished resource for Kentucky Colonels and a compelling read for anyone interested in the fascinating history and traditions of the Commonwealth.
