Historical Marker

Jessamine County Hemp

One of chief producing counties, it was third in value of product and also in the number of cordage factories, with 14 in 1840. Peak production reached in late 1800s, yielding over 1,000 tons per year, with a value of about $125,000. In 1899, it was one of the three Bluegrass counties which together produced more than one-half of hemp grown in the entire country.

Reverse

Hemp in Kentucky - First crop grown, 1775. From 1840 to 1860, Ky.'s production largest in U.S. Peak in 1850 was 40,000 tons, with value of $5,000,000. Scores of factories made twine, rope, oakum to caulk sailing ships and cotton bagging. State's largest cash crop until 1915. Market lost to imported jute, freed of tariff. As war measure, hemp grown again during World War II.