Walcott Covered Bridge
This scenic bridge, also known as The White Bridge, is a 75-foot span over Locust Creek and has served Walcott community from 1824-1954. It is of King and Queen type, timber truss construction with hand-hewn joints and beams. First restored by A. L. Murray. Bridge was listed on the National Register of Historic Places, 1975.
(Reverse) Covered Bridges - Covered bridges were first built in the 1790s but did not become widely popular until after 1814. They were covered to protect them from the weather. At one time there were more than 400 covered bridges in Ky. The timbered spans have played a romantic role in our history. Some were destroyed during the Civil War. The remaining ones are a nostalgic link with the past
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.
Bracken County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped 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.