Founder of Augusta


Captain Philip Buckner, Revolutionary War soldier, gave 600 acres of land to establish Augusta in 1797. He received many land grants, one in present Bracken County, for service as Commissary Officer in Va. Capt. Buckner was member of 2nd Ky. Constitutional Convention, 1799; represented Bracken Co. in Legislature. Lived at "Woodlawn" many years; died here in 1830

Loading...
The song "Happy Birthday to You" was written by two sisters, Mildred and Patty Hill, who were both born in Kentucky.
Bracken County, located in northeastern Kentucky, has a rich history dating back to the early 1800s. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Shawnee and Cherokee, who were later displaced by European settlers. The county was officially established in 1796 and named after William Bracken, a prominent pioneer and legislator.

During the late 18th and early 19th centuries, Bracken County experienced rapid growth and development. It became an important location for agriculture, particularly tobacco farming, with many settlers cultivating large plantations. The Ohio River, which borders the county, played a crucial role in transporting goods and connecting Bracken County to nearby cities.

The county's economy continued to thrive throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, fueled by farming, distilling, and manufacturing industries. Bracken County was known for its bourbon production and had several renowned distilleries. The county also became a hub for trade and commerce, with bustling river ports and a railroad network that facilitated transportation.

Bracken County has also been an important site for education. The Augusta College, established in 1822, was one of the earliest institutions of higher learning in the state. Today, the county is primarily rural, with a population centered around the towns of Augusta and Brooksville. Bracken County remains proud of its history and continues to preserve its heritage through various cultural and historical institutions.

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

  • 1786: Bracken County is established by the Virginia General Assembly.
  • 1797: Augusta is named the county seat of Bracken County.
  • 1839: Augusta is incorporated as a city.
  • 1862: John Hunt Morgan's Confederate raiders pass through Bracken County during the Civil War.
  • 1908: The first bridge over the Ohio River connects Bracken County to Ohio.
  • 1916: The first high school in Bracken County is established in Augusta.
  • 1937: The Ohio River flood devastates many areas of Bracken County.
  • 1971: Augusta Ferry, an important transportation link, ceases operation.
  • 1997: The Augusta Historic District is added to the National Register of Historic Places.
  • 2008: The Augusta Landing Archaeological District is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.