Historical Marker

Fort William

Established in 1785 by William Christian and his wife, Anne, a sister of Patrick Henry. On this site one of earliest stone houses in Kentucky was a famous tavern, The Eight Mile House, on Harrods Trace to Falls of the Ohio. From here, Col. Christian directed the defense of Jefferson County. Killed by Indians, 1786. Buried on Middle Fork of Beargrass.

Reverse

Col. William Christian - Pioneer leader, prominent in the development of Virginia, Kentucky. Born Virginia, 1743. Officer in French and Indian War, in Dunmore's War, the Revolution and defense of the frontier. He brought his family to Kentucky, 1785. Developed Bullitt Lick Saltworks, Kentucky's first industry. Trustee of Transylvania Seminary. County Lieut. Christian County named for him, 1796.