Adair County Courthouse
On June 28, 1802, court ordered permanent seat of justice on the public square. First courthouse built in 1806. Present structure was designed by McDonald Bros., Louisville, and built by William H. Hudson and Columbus Stone in 1887. A unique architectural feature is the carving of faces on the south columns. Listed on National Register of Historic Places, 1974. Erected in 1976
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The famous horse race, the Kentucky Derby, has been held annually at Churchill Downs in Louisville since 1875.
About Adair County
Adair County Timeline
Adair County, located in Kentucky, has a rich and diverse history that stretches back centuries. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Shawnee and Cherokee, who used the land for hunting and fishing.
European settlers began arriving in the late 18th century, with the first permanent settlement established in 1792. The county was named after John Adair, a Revolutionary War veteran and politician who would go on to become the eighth governor of Kentucky. Adair County played a role in the War of 1812, as it was a strategic location for military movements.
During the 19th century, Adair County experienced significant growth and development. The introduction of the railroad in the mid-1800s brought increased trade and transportation opportunities to the area. Agriculture became a major industry, with tobacco and hemp being the primary crops. The county also became a hub for education, with the establishment of Adair County Schools and Lindsey Wilson College.
In the 20th century, Adair County continued to evolve. World War II brought changes to the county, as many residents served in the military, while others supported the war effort on the homefront. The post-war era saw the decline of traditional agricultural industries, leading to a shift towards manufacturing and other sectors.
Today, Adair County is a vibrant community that celebrates its history while looking towards the future. It is home to a thriving downtown area, numerous recreational opportunities, and a strong sense of community pride. The county continues to embrace its agricultural roots while also embracing new industries and opportunities for growth.
European settlers began arriving in the late 18th century, with the first permanent settlement established in 1792. The county was named after John Adair, a Revolutionary War veteran and politician who would go on to become the eighth governor of Kentucky. Adair County played a role in the War of 1812, as it was a strategic location for military movements.
During the 19th century, Adair County experienced significant growth and development. The introduction of the railroad in the mid-1800s brought increased trade and transportation opportunities to the area. Agriculture became a major industry, with tobacco and hemp being the primary crops. The county also became a hub for education, with the establishment of Adair County Schools and Lindsey Wilson College.
In the 20th century, Adair County continued to evolve. World War II brought changes to the county, as many residents served in the military, while others supported the war effort on the homefront. The post-war era saw the decline of traditional agricultural industries, leading to a shift towards manufacturing and other sectors.
Today, Adair County is a vibrant community that celebrates its history while looking towards the future. It is home to a thriving downtown area, numerous recreational opportunities, and a strong sense of community pride. The county continues to embrace its agricultural roots while also embracing new industries and opportunities for growth.
Adair County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Adair County, Kentucky.
- 1801 - Adair County is established on December 11.
- 1802 - The first settlers arrive in the area.
- 1806 - The town of Columbia is founded and becomes the county seat.
- 1814 - The first courthouse is constructed in Columbia.
- 1838 - A new brick courthouse is built in Columbia.
- 1861-1865 - Adair County residents participate in the Civil War.
- 1887 - The Louisville and Nashville Railroad arrives in Columbia.
- 1931 - The Green River Lake is created by the completion of a dam.
- 1952 - A new courthouse building is constructed in Columbia.
- 1980 - The Adair County Public Library is established.
- 2009 - The Westlake Regional Hospital opens in Columbia.