The Samuel May House Project

Sponsored by the Friends of the Samuel May House, Inc.

History of the Project

• In 1993 a small group of civic-minded Floyd Countians established the Friends of the Samuel May House, Inc.

• We are working to transform the house into Eastern Kentucky’s premier tourist attraction.

• We seek to promote local history and tourism by creating a unique classroom for the preservation of our rich local heritage.

Brief History of the Samuel May House

• Built in 1817, it is the oldest house in the Big Sandy Valley.

• Its builder, Samuel May, was Floyd County’s leading politician during the 1830s.

• It was the boyhood home of Andrew Jackson May, the region’s leading Confederate officer.

• From 1861 to 1865 it was used as a recruiting post by the Confederate Army.

Plans for interpreting the house

• When tourists visit the May House, they will park their cars in a lot on the hill below the house.

• After viewing its Historical Marker, they will go to the front door of the house, where they will be greeted by a guide in an 1830s costume.

• Then they will tour Samuel’s Parlor, Catherine’s Parlor, the Dining Room, the Foyer, the Public Room, and the Children’s Room.

Further Interpretations

• Although key pieces of furniture will be displayed, the rooms will be relatively empty, allowing visitors to move freely through the house.

• During the tour, the guide will tell stories about the house and the people associated with it.

Restoration Efforts

• In 1995, the City of Prestonsburg received a $400,000 grant from the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet for the restoration of the house.

• The main restoration work was completed in April, 1997. However, it did not include landscaping, wallpapering, and other key elements of the restoration plan.

Current Status of the Project

• In the Summer of 1999, a unisex restroom and a modern kitchenette were added to the house.

• In addition, a ramp for disabled persons has been constructed.

• Plans are underway to construct a parking lot and a free-standing visitor’s center with restrooms.

The Samuel May House Photo Archive

• We are in the process of creating a photo archive which will document the history of Floyd County and surrounding counties.

• The archive will be stored at the Samuel May House.

• It will be open to the public, and users of the archive will be able to copy the pictures kept in it.

The Samuel May House Project needs your help.

• Make your check payable to the Friends of the Samuel May House, Inc., P. O. Box 1460, Prestonsburg, Kentucky 41653.

• If you are service-oriented, become a Samuel May House volunteer. The Friends of the Samuel May House hold their monthly meeting every fourth Tuesday of the month at 7 pm in the May House Dining Room.