Historical Marker

John Larue Helm, 1802-1867


This Hardin Co. native was one of Kentucky's most celebrated lawyers. In legislature 17 yrs.; rose to House Speaker. Elected lt. gov., he became gov. when John J. Crittenden resigned, 1850. Pres. of L&N R.R., 1854-60, when railroad completed. A harsh critic of Pres. Lincoln, Helm favored neutrality for Ky. in the Civil War. Elected gov., 1867. Died after five days in office

  A brief timeline of the Civil War

  • April 12, 1861: The Civil War begins with the Confederate attack on Fort Sumter, located in South Carolina's Charleston Harbor.

  • April 15, 1861: President Abraham Lincoln issues a call for 75,000 volunteers to serve in the Union Army to suppress the rebellion.

  • May 24, 1861: The first major land battle, known as the First Battle of Bull Run (or First Battle of Manassas), takes place in Virginia. It ends in Confederate victory.

  • September 17, 1862: The Battle of Antietam in Maryland becomes the bloodiest single-day battle in American history, with heavy casualties on both sides. The Union forces, commanded by General George McClellan, manage to halt Confederate General Robert E. Lee's advance into Union territory.

  • January 1, 1863: President Lincoln issues the Emancipation Proclamation, declaring that all slaves in Confederate-held territories are to be set free. However, the proclamation does not immediately free all slaves in the United States.

  • July 1-3, 1863: The Battle of Gettysburg in Pennsylvania takes place, resulting in a significant Union victory and inflicting heavy casualties on Confederate forces. It marks a turning point in the war.

  • November 19, 1863: President Lincoln delivers the Gettysburg Address, emphasizing the principles of liberty, equality, and the preservation of the Union.

  • April 9, 1865: General Robert E. Lee surrenders to Union General Ulysses S. Grant at Appomattox Court House in Virginia, effectively ending the Civil War.

  • April 14, 1865: President Lincoln is assassinated by John Wilkes Booth while attending a play at Ford's Theatre in Washington, D.C.

  • May 10, 1865: Confederate President Jefferson Davis is captured, signaling the collapse of the Confederate government.

  • December 6, 1865: The Thirteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution is ratified, officially abolishing slavery throughout the country.

While this timeline provides an overview of key events, it is important to note that the Civil War spanned over four years, from 1861 to 1865, and encompassed numerous battles, campaigns, and political developments that shaped the course of American history.

Civil War John J. Crittenden Abraham Lincoln Louisville and Nashville Railroad
The town of Elizabethtown, Kentucky, was the birthplace of Colonel Harland Sanders, the founder of Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC).
Kentucky random facts
Hardin County, located in central Kentucky, has a rich and diverse history that dates back to the early 1700s. The area was initially inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Shawnee and Cherokee, who hunted and fished in the region. The first European explorers arrived in the late 1700s, with John Hardin being the first known settler.

In the late 18th century, Hardin County began to see significant growth due to its fertile soil and the expansion of the western frontier. The county was officially established in 1792 and named after Colonel John Hardin, a well-known Revolutionary War soldier. The county seat was established in Elizabethtown, named after Hardin's wife, and it became a center for trade and commerce.

During the Civil War, Hardin County was torn apart by conflicting loyalties. Although Kentucky was a border state and officially neutral, many residents joined the Confederate army, while others remained loyal to the Union. The Battle of Munfordville, fought in 1862, had a significant impact on the county, as Union forces defended the vital Louisville & Nashville Railroad.

In the 20th century, Hardin County experienced significant economic growth and development. The establishment of Fort Knox in 1918 brought employment opportunities and a boost to the local economy. Today, Fort Knox is a major military base and home to the U.S. Army Armor Center, contributing greatly to the county's economic stability.

Overall, Hardin County's history is a story of growth, conflict, and resilience. From its early days as a Native American hunting ground to its present role as a vibrant and diverse community, the county's history has shaped its identity and continues to influence its future.

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

  • 1776 - Hardin County is established as a county in the state of Kentucky
  • 1780s - Early settlers start to populate the area
  • 1792 - Kentucky becomes the 15th state and Hardin County is included as part of the newly formed state
  • 1806 - Elizabethtown becomes the county seat of Hardin County
  • 1811 - Construction of a permanent courthouse begins in Elizabethtown
  • 1861-1865 - Hardin County residents serve in the American Civil War
  • 1869 - Hardin County Agricultural and Mechanical Society is established
  • 1874 - First railroad reaches Elizabethtown, improving transportation and trade
  • 1922 - Camp Knox is established, later becoming Fort Knox, a major military installation
  • 1937 - The Ohio River flood devastates the county, causing significant damage
  • 1960s - Construction of Interstate 65 through Hardin County begins, improving connectivity
  • 1980s - Growth in manufacturing and commerce leads to economic development
  • 2003 - The Hardin County Veterans Tribute is dedicated to honor local veterans