Historical Marker

Early Vital Junction

Crossroads for pioneer defense. Harrodsburg, 1774, Harrod's Fort, 1775, and two miles east Bowman's Fort, 1777, earliest in area. In 1779-80 eight fortified stations built nearby-Crow's, Fisher's, Gordon's, Haggin's, McGary's, McMurtry's, Smith's, and Trigg's. Routes connecting them converged here in defense plan. All Indian attacks in area defeated.

Reverse

Colonel John Bowman - Military Commander of Kentucky, appointed, 1776, by Gov. Patrick Henry of Va. and, 1778, by Gov. Thomas Jefferson. Built Bowman's Fort, 2 miles east of here, 1777. Brought 30 families, 1779, settling at fort. Leader of defense against Indians in period of hostilities. Directed attack into Ohio, 1779. On first court, Harrodsburg, 1777. A first Transylvania trustee.