Historical Marker

Birthplace of Herman Chittison

Historical marker location:
Flemingsburg, Kentucky
( Public Library, 303 South Main Cross St., Flemingsburg)

Born in Flemingsburg, October 15, 1908, to Charles and Sarah Jane Chittison. He played hymns at Strawberry Methodist Church as a child. Attended Walden College in Nashville, 1924; later Ky. State Industrial College for Colored Persons in Frankfort. Began his musical career with Zach Whyte's Chocolate Beau Brummels, 1928. Presented by Fleming Co. Bicentennial Com.

(Reverse) Herman Chittison recorded on both American and French labels as a soloist and accompanist for Ethel Waters and Mildred Bailey. Toured with comedian Stepin Fetchit and trumpeter Louis Armstrong. Played "Ernie" in radio series Casey, Crime Photographer (1942-51). Played several prominent clubs in New York during 50s and 60s. Died 1967 and buried in Cleveland, Ohio

African American
Kentucky is known as the "Bluegrass State" because of the bluegrass that grows in many of its pastures.
Kentucky random facts
Fleming County, Kentucky has a rich and fascinating history that spans several centuries. The county was named after Colonel John Fleming, a renowned Indian fighter and one of the earliest pioneers in the region. The area was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Shawnee and Cherokee, who used the fertile lands for hunting and gathering.

European settlers began arriving in the late 18th century, with the establishment of the first settlement known as Fleming Station in 1782. The county grew rapidly, and in 1798, it was officially established as Fleming County, incorporating several smaller settlements. The county seat was established in Flemingsburg, named after Colonel Fleming, and it remains the center of government and commerce to this day.

During the Civil War, Fleming County was deeply divided, with residents on both sides of the conflict. The county saw many skirmishes and several notable battles, such as the Battle of Flemingsburg in 1862. After the war, the county experienced a period of recovery and development, particularly in agriculture, with tobacco being a major cash crop.

In the 20th century, Fleming County faced various challenges and changes. The decline of tobacco farming and the rise of industrialization led to shifts in the local economy. Today, Fleming County is known for its beautiful rolling hills, rich farmland, and close-knit community. It continues to preserve its historical landmarks and embrace its Appalachian heritage, while evolving to meet the needs of its residents in the modern era.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Fleming County, Kentucky.

  • 1798 - Fleming County is established as one of the original nine counties of the Kentucky State.
  • 1816 - The town of Flemingsburg, the county seat of Fleming County, is founded.
  • 1861-1865 - Fleming County, like many other regions in Kentucky, is deeply divided during the American Civil War.
  • 1892 - The Fleming County Courthouse, a landmark in Flemingsburg, is built.
  • 1923 - Blue Licks Battlefield State Resort Park is established to commemorate the Battle of Blue Licks, which took place in Fleming County during the Revolutionary War.
  • 1964 - The Daniel Boone National Forest is established, which includes parts of Fleming County.
  • 1974 - The Fleming County Covered Bridge, a historic landmark, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
  • 2006 - The Fleming County Covered Bridge is destroyed by a flood.