Historical Marker

William H. Townsend (1890-1964)


This renowned scholar, raconteur, and lawyer was born in Anderson Co. Educated first in a one-room school at Glensboro, he graduated from U.K. Law School in 1912. Among his books was Lincoln and the Bluegrass (1955). His talk on Cassius Clay, "The Lion of White Hall," now a taped classic. Presented by Mary Genevieve and Joe Murphy.

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William H. Townsend (1890-1964) - Townsend had the largest private collection of Lincolniana in U.S. Recognized as a leading expert on Abraham Lincoln, Townsend was a founder of the Ky. Civil War Round Table, 1953. He served as its first president until his death. Named posthumously to Fayette County Bar's Hall of Fame, 1996. Presented by Mary Genevieve and Joe Murphy

  A brief timeline of the history of the University Of Kentucky

The University of Kentucky, located in Lexington, Kentucky, has a rich history that spans over 150 years. Here is a brief timeline highlighting key moments in the university's development:

  • 1865: The Agricultural and Mechanical College of Kentucky is established as a land-grant institution under the Morrill Act of 1862. The institution's purpose is to provide education in agriculture, mechanical arts, and other practical sciences.

  • 1878: The institution is renamed the State College of Kentucky.

  • 1908: The State College becomes the University of Kentucky, signifying its expanded educational offerings and growing stature.

  • 1942: The university's administration forms an agreement with the United States Navy to establish the Navy's first flight-training program during World War II. This program becomes known as the UK College Training Detachment.

  • 1949: The University of Kentucky integrates its student body, becoming one of the first public universities in the South to do so.

  • 1954: The UK College of Law is desegregated, marking an important step in the university's commitment to racial equality and diversity.

  • 1997: The University of Kentucky establishes the Center for Applied Energy Research, focusing on research and development in the field of energy resources.

  • 2002: The UK HealthCare system is formed, combining the university's hospital, clinics, and medical education programs under one umbrella.

  • 2011: The university inaugurates its 12th president, Dr. Eli Capilouto, who continues to lead the institution's growth and progress.

  • 2012: The UK College of Pharmacy opens the Pharmaceutical Sciences Building, featuring state-of-the-art research and teaching facilities.

  • 2020: The COVID-19 pandemic affects the university, leading to the adoption of remote learning and other measures to ensure the safety of the campus community.

Throughout its history, the University of Kentucky has grown into a prominent research university with a wide range of academic programs and a strong emphasis on athletics, particularly basketball. Today, it continues to serve as a hub of education, innovation, and cultural activity in the Commonwealth of Kentucky.

Books Cassius M. Clay Abraham Lincoln University of Kentucky
The famous African-American author and poet, Langston Hughes, spent much of his childhood in Lexington, Kentucky.
Kentucky random facts
Anderson County, Kentucky has a rich and interesting history that stretches back to the early 18th century. The area was initially settled by pioneers in the mid-1700s, attracted by the fertile land and abundance of natural resources. The county was officially established in 1827 and named after Richard Clough Anderson Jr., a hero of the American Revolutionary War.

During the early years of Anderson County, agriculture played a vital role in its economy. Farmers relied heavily on tobacco, hemp, and livestock production to support their families and contribute to the local economy. The county also had a significant iron industry, with several iron furnaces established during the 1800s.

The Civil War had a profound impact on Anderson County, as it experienced both Confederate and Union occupation. The Battle of Lawrenceburg, which took place in the county in 1862, was a significant event during the war. The county was home to both Confederate and Union sympathizers, which led to tensions and conflicts throughout the war.

In the late 19th century, Anderson County underwent significant economic and industrial development. Railroad lines were built, connecting the county to larger cities and markets. This led to the growth of businesses and the creation of new jobs. The county also saw the rise of tobacco warehouses and distilleries, which became crucial industries. Today, Anderson County continues to thrive as a rural community with a mix of agriculture and small businesses, while also embracing its historical roots.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Anderson County, Kentucky.

  • 1827 - Anderson County is established as the 62nd county in Kentucky.
  • 1840-1850 - Anderson County experiences a population boom due to the growth of the railroad industry.
  • 1861-1865 - The American Civil War impacts Anderson County, with many residents serving in the military.
  • 1882 - Lawrenceburg becomes the county seat of Anderson County.
  • 1904 - The Louisville and Nashville Railroad extends its line through Anderson County, boosting economic growth.
  • 1920s - The Great Depression leads to economic hardship in Anderson County as agriculture prices plummet.
  • 1950s-1960s - Anderson County experiences suburbanization, with an increase in residential development and a decline in agriculture.
  • 1980s - The opening of the Bluegrass Parkway brings increased tourism and economic opportunities to Anderson County.
  • 2004 - The Wild Turkey Distillery opens in Lawrenceburg, becoming a major tourist attraction.
  • Present - Anderson County continues to be a blend of rural landscapes, suburban neighborhoods, and growing commerce.