Captain John Holder
COLONEL JOHN HOLDER - John Holder commanded at Fort Boonesborough in 1779 and est. Holder’s Station near the mouth of Lower Howard’s Creek in 1782. He led a garrison at Vincennes in George Roger Clark’s 1786 Wabash Campaign & was appointed a justice of Clark Co. and Lt. Col. of the 17th Regiment of the KY militia in 1792. Holder married Col. Richard Callaway’s daughter, Fanny. (Original text) An outstanding pioneer at Fort Boonesborough, 1776-81. Among the rescuers of Callaway and Boone girls captured by Indians. Named colonel of militia, 1779. Engaged in expeditions against Indians. In 1781 built Holder's Station and operated boatyard at the mouth of Howard's Creek. Led in the Battle of Upper Blue Licks, 1782. Trustee of Winchester, justice Co. Court.
HOWARD'S CREEK INDUSTRIAL CENTER - Holder had a plantation, ferry, boatyard, inspection warehouse, and store and operated a mill nearby. His enterprises led to one of Kentucky’s early industrial areas along Lower Howard’s Creek. The industrial center included water- powered mills, distilleries, blacksmith shops, rock quarries, tanneries, a stone shop, and a woolen factory. Updated December 2020.