Historical Marker

Bristow, The Soldier-Birthplace

Benjamin Helm Bristow, 1832-1896, Federal officer and staunch Unionist during secession. Active recruiter of 25th Volunteer Militia, of which he was Lt. Col., and 8th Ky. Cavalry, which he served as Col. At Fort Donelson and Shiloh battles, 1862. A leader in capture of Morgan and raiders, 1863. Elected state senate while still in field, 1863.

Reverse

Bristow, the Lawyer - Practiced law here until 1858. (See over for military career.) From 1866-70, US attorney for district of Kentucky. First US Solicitor General, 1870-72. As Secretary of Treasury, 1874-76, exposed frauds in "Whiskey Ring" operating in mid-west. In 1876, lost Republican presidential nomination to Rutherford B. Hayes. Leading member Ky. Bar Assn. until 1878, when he moved to New York.