Alma Wallace Lesch

Historical marker location:
Shepherdsville, Kentucky
( Highways 44 & 61, Shepherdsville)

A pioneer of the contemporary crafts movement, Lesch was an internationally exhibited textile teacher and artist, noted for work with fabric and found objects. Wrote influential book, Vegetable Dyeing, in 1970. Named Master Craftsman by World Crafts Council in 1974; received Ky. Governor's Award in 1987.

(Reverse) Born in McCracken Co., Lesch lived and died in Bullitt Co., where she worked from her home studio. A founding member of the Kentucky Guild of Arts and Crafts, Lesch was one of five U.S. artists to have fiber work in the first World Crafts Exhibition (1974)

Loading...
Kentucky was originally part of Virginia and was known as the "Kentucky County" until it became a separate state in 1792.
Bullitt County, Kentucky, located in the north-central part of the state, has a rich and diverse history that dates back to the late 18th century. The county was officially established in 1796 and was named after Alexander Scott Bullitt, a prominent lawyer and statesman in Kentucky.

During its early years, Bullitt County was primarily an agricultural community, with settlers planting crops such as corn, tobacco, and hemp. The county quickly grew in population, attracting settlers from neighboring counties and states. One of the key events in the county's history was the construction of the Louisville and Nashville Turnpike in the early 19th century, which sparked economic growth and facilitated trade between Bullitt County and other regions.

In the mid-19th century, Bullitt County became known for its salt production. The discovery of salt deposits in the area led to the establishment of several salt mines and a thriving industry. The salt industry played a significant role in the development of the county, attracting more settlers and boosting the local economy.

During the American Civil War, Bullitt County experienced its share of turmoil. The county was geographically located between the Union and Confederate lines, and as a result, there were frequent skirmishes and military actions. The county suffered from both physical destruction and economic losses during this period.

In the 20th century, Bullitt County went through a period of modernization and growth. The county's population increased, and new industries, such as manufacturing and retail, emerged. Today, Bullitt County continues to grow and modernize, while still preserving its historical roots and celebrating its unique heritage.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Bullitt County, Kentucky.

  • 1796 - Bullitt County is founded and named after Alexander Scott Bullitt, the first Lieutenant Governor of Kentucky
  • 1812 - Shepherdsville is established as the county seat of Bullitt County
  • 1862 - John Morgan and his Confederate soldiers raid the county during the Civil War
  • 1907 - Shepherdsville suffers a devastating fire that destroys much of the downtown area
  • 1929 - Ku Klux Klan activities are reported in Bullitt County
  • 1937 - Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest is opened in Clermont
  • 1961 - Fort Knox Gold Vault is constructed in Bullitt County, becoming one of the largest gold depositories in the world
  • 1974 - The Bullitt County Courthouse is added to the National Register of Historic Places
  • 1996 - The Bullitt County History Museum is established in Shepherdsville