Musically Acclaimed: Northern Kentucky native and violinist, Florence Hardeman, achieves global recognition as a renowned musician
The Kentucky Historical Society (KHS) in Frankfort has announced a fresh new look and a renewed commitment to engage and inspire all Kentuckians. The rebranding campaign, which includes a dynamic color palette and a series of provocative advertising messages, was unveiled recently along with a new logo inspired by the architectural design of the Old State Capitol Rotunda.
At the heart of the rebranding is a new tagline, 'Bringing our past to life'. This tagline encapsulates KHS's mission to preserve and share the rich history of Kentucky, making it accessible and engaging for everyone.
As part of the campaign, KHS has launched a new logo on its site and various platforms. The logo, a modern interpretation of the Old State Capitol Rotunda, symbolises the Society's dedication to preserving and showcasing Kentucky's history.
The rebranding also pays homage to a remarkable figure from Kentucky's past, Florence E. Hardeman. Born in Covington, Kentucky, in 1886, Hardeman was a renowned violinist who made her musical debut with the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra as a teenager. She toured the United States with the famous French actress, Sarah Bernhardt, and was given a 300-year-old, $10,000 Amati violin previously owned by Ole Bull.
Hardeman's career took her to John Phillip Sousa's Marine Band in 1909, where she performed in prestigious venues such as Music Hall, Cincinnati, and Civic Auditorium, San Francisco. However, her career did not extend beyond the United States, as there is no record of her having been tested or having performed with orchestras abroad outside the US up to 1914.
Hardeman's life and career are a testament to the rich cultural heritage that KHS seeks to preserve and celebrate. The Society's diverse range of programs and events, including the KHS Historic Marker Program, aim to educate and engage the public in the state's history.
Membership in the Kentucky Historical Society provides access to these programs and events. The Kentucky Historical Society Foundation, a financial supporter of KHS, has expressed gratitude to donors and members for their generosity in supporting this new chapter in KHS's work.
For more information about the Kentucky Historical Society and its new brand, visit the Society's website or watch the videos "Kentucky Historical Society - Introducing our new KHS brand" and "Kentucky Historical Society - History" on YouTube.
