Historical Marker

Lexington Named

Historical marker location:
Lexington, Kentucky
( Entrance to McConnell Springs Dr. & Old Frankfort Pk., Lexington)

In early June of 1775, a party of frontiersmen, led by William McConnell, camped near here on a branch of Elkhorn Creek. Upon hearing of the colonists' victory at Lexington, Mass., on April 19, 1775, they named their campsite Lexington to commemorate the first battle of the American Revolution. Impressed with the area, they hoped to see a town here some day.

(Reverse)Lexington Settled - Due to danger of Indian attacks, permanent settlement was delayed for four years. In 1779 Colonel Robert Patterson and 25 companions came from Fort Harrod and erected a blockhouse at present Main and Mill streets. Cabins and stockade were soon built, making fort a place of importance. The town of Lexington was established on May 6, 1782, by act of Va. Gen. Assembly. Originally dedicated November 22, 1962. Text revised, marker recast in 1978.