Admiral Claude C. Bloch
The career of this naval officer spanned Spanish-American War and World Wars I and II. A native of Butler County, he attended public schools and Ogden College in Bowling Green; graduated from Annapolis, 1899. Assumed command of USS Plattsburg in 1918; received the Navy Cross for hazardous transporting of troops and supplies to Europe.
(Reverse) Admiral Claude C. Bloch - Bloch's duties included Commander, Mine Force, Pacific Fleet; Chief of Staff to Commander, Battleship Divisions; Chief of Bureau of Ordnance-all in 1920s; Commander in Chief, U.S. Fleet, 1938-40; Commandant of 14th Naval Dist. at Pearl Harbor, 1940-42. As chairman of Navy Board for industrial production awards, he was given Legion of Merit. Retired, 1945
The county was officially established in 1810 and named after General Richard Butler, a Revolutionary War hero. In its early years, Butler County was primarily an agricultural region, with farming and livestock playing a vital role in the local economy. The area quickly developed into a thriving community, with a number of small towns and villages sprouting up throughout the county.
During the Civil War, Butler County found itself torn apart by the conflict. Being located on the border between the Union and Confederate states, the area experienced significant unrest and violence. Many of its residents joined the Confederate Army, while others remained loyal to the Union. The county's strategic location also made it a target for both sides, leading to numerous skirmishes and battles.
In the post-war years, Butler County experienced a period of growth and recovery. The agricultural industry continued to flourish, with tobacco becoming a major cash crop. The county also saw the development of coal mining operations, further diversifying its economy. Over the years, Butler County has faced various challenges but has remained a resilient and vibrant community, proud of its history and dedicated to preserving its unique heritage.
Butler County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Butler County, Kentucky.
- 1810 - Butler County is formed from sections of Logan and Ohio counties.
- 1813 - The county officially becomes a political entity.
- 1818 - Morgantown is established as the county seat.
- 1836 - A fire destroys most of Morgantown, leading to its rebuilding.
- 1861-1865 - Many Butler County residents serve in the Confederate Army during the Civil War.
- 1873 - The current Butler County Courthouse is built.
- 1925 - Mammoth Cave National Park is established, partially located in Butler County.
- 1957 - The Green River Dam is completed, creating the Green River Lake.
- 1997 - Butler County celebrates its bicentennial anniversary.
- 2006 - The Butler County Veterans Memorial Park is dedicated.