Historical Marker
County Named, 1843
For Richard M. Johnson, native of Kentucky, US Vice-President, 1837 to 1841, US Rep. 1807-19, 1829-37, US Senator 1819-29, intimate of President Jackson. His tactics as Colonel of Ky. Mounted Riflemen, War of 1812, won Battle of the Thames and earned him title: "Father of American Cavalry." Johnson was formed from parts of Lawrence, Floyd and Morgan counties.
The song "Happy Birthday to You" was written by two sisters, Mildred and Patty Hill, who were both born in Kentucky.