Historical Marker

Mary Elliott Flanery


The first woman elected to Kentucky legislature, 1921. Mary E. Flanery elected to House of Representatives from Boyd County. She had worked for woman suffrage; was concerned with marriage and divorce laws and educational reform. At her death, 1933, a bronze marker was placed at her seat, No. 40, in house chamber. Presented by The Democratic Woman's Club of Ky.

(Reverse) Mary Elliott Flanery - Mary E. Flanery was a journalist, suffragist, and politician. Born 1867 in Carter Co. (now Elliott Co.), she wrote for Ashland Daily Independent, 1904-26; also taught in Elliott and Carter counties. Chosen in 1924 as delegate to the Democratic National Convention, New York City. In addition to public life, she and her husband reared five children. Buried, Ashland Cem

Journalists Women
Audiobooks about the history of Kentucky.
The song "Happy Birthday to You" was written by two sisters, Mildred and Patty Hill, who were both born in Kentucky.
Kentucky random facts
Boyd County, located in northeastern Kentucky, has a rich history dating back to the early 19th century. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Shawnee and Cherokee, before European settlers arrived. In the late 1700s, explorers like Daniel Boone explored the region, increasing interest in its potential for settlement.

The county was officially established on December 24, 1860, and was named after Linn Boyd, a politician from Kentucky. Like many areas in Appalachia, Boyd County was predominantly rural and agriculturally focused in its early years. The fertile soil and abundant natural resources attracted settlers, who established small communities and farms throughout the area.

The discovery of natural gas and oil in the late 1800s brought significant economic growth to Boyd County. Companies like the Ashland Oil and Refining Company, now known as Marathon Petroleum Corporation, flourished, attracting workers from far and wide. This led to the expansion of towns like Ashland, the county seat, which became an important transportation and industrial center.

Throughout the 20th century, Boyd County continued to thrive and diversify its economy. The construction of the Bluegrass Army Depot during World War II brought jobs and stability to the region. In recent decades, the county has embraced tourism, with attractions like the Highlands Museum and Discovery Center and the Paramount Arts Center drawing visitors from across the state.

Today, Boyd County remains a vibrant and dynamic community, blending its rich history with a focus on education, healthcare, and industry. The county is known for its strong sense of community, natural beauty, and commitment to preserving its heritage while embracing the future.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Boyd County, Kentucky.

  • 1860 - Boyd County is established as a county in Kentucky
  • 1872 - Ashland, the county seat of Boyd County, is officially incorporated as a city
  • 1879 - The Chesapeake and Ohio Railway is completed through Boyd County, boosting the local economy
  • 1899 - The Ashland Iron & Mining Company is founded, becoming a significant employer in the region
  • 1937 - Famed country music singer and songwriter, Billy Ray Cyrus, is born in Flatwoods, Boyd County
  • 1954 - The Ashland Oil Refinery is established, becoming one of the region's largest employers
  • 1968 - The Ohio River flood devastates Boyd County and surrounding areas
  • 1992 - The Paramount Arts Center, a historic theater in Ashland, celebrates its centennial anniversary