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The Kentucky Colonels Handbook

The definitive guide for those who take their honorable title of the Kentucky Colonel commission seriously.

This rare 1930 book could not be republished previously due to the fact that it was 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, it 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 starting in 1933.

Published by Kentucky Colonels in 1930

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. On January 01, 2026 the book entered the public domain, so now you can read it below or download it for free from the Internet Archive in several different formats.⬇️

The Kentucky Colonels Handbook, published in 1930

The Kentucky Colonels Handbook (Cover)

The Kentucky Colonels Handbook.pdf

A Look Back: The Kentucky Colonels Handbook (1930)

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.

Limitations of the 1930 Edition

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.

Envisioning the Historical Edition: A Legacy Reimagined

The new improved 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:

Content for a Public Audience

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.

Features of Special Interest to Kentucky Colonels

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 New 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 Second and 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.

Digital Archive & Citation Kit

1. Formal Bibliographic Citations

Chicago: Vickery, Oliver, and John E. Goddard, eds. The Kentucky Colonels Handbook. Louisville: Brown Hotel, 1930. Internet Archive.
APA (7th): Vickery, O., & Goddard, J. E. (Eds.). (1930). The Kentucky Colonels Handbook. Internet Archive.
MLA (9th): Vickery, Oliver, and John E. Goddard, eds. The Kentucky Colonels Handbook. Brown Hotel, 1930. Internet Archive, archive.org.

2. Annotation

This 1930 handbook (64 pages) from the Brown Hotel in Louisville acts as a primary source for the Kentucky Colonelcy. It details the civic duties of the role, shifting focus from military tradition to community service and agriculture. The document is also relevant as an exhibit in Case 23-5795 (HOKC v. KCI) regarding the history of the commission.

3. Metadata

Keywords: 1930 Kentucky Colonels Handbook, Oliver Vickery, Brown Hotel, Transylvania Convention, Case 23-5795

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