Salt River Furnace
Stood one mile west. It was a stone stack 33 ft. high with a maximum inner diameter of 10 ft. Its fuel was charcoal, and its air blast machinery was driven by a steam engine, blowing preheated air through the stack. Built in 1832, perhaps by John H. Baker, it produced 700 to 800 tons of iron and castings annually until operations ended, 1853.
(Reverse) Iron Made in Kentucky - A major producer since 1791, Ky. ranked 3rd in US in 1830s, 11th in 1965. Charcoal timber, native ore, limestone supplied material for numerous furnaces making pig iron, utensils, munitions in the Hanging Rock, Red River, Between Rivers, Rolling Fork, Green River Regions. Old charcoal furnace era ended by depletion of ore and timber and the growth of railroads
The famous Hatfield-McCoy feud, a long-running and violent conflict between two Appalachian families, began in Kentucky in the late 19th century.
During its early years, Bullitt County was primarily an agricultural community, with settlers planting crops such as corn, tobacco, and hemp. The county quickly grew in population, attracting settlers from neighboring counties and states. One of the key events in the county's history was the construction of the Louisville and Nashville Turnpike in the early 19th century, which sparked economic growth and facilitated trade between Bullitt County and other regions.
In the mid-19th century, Bullitt County became known for its salt production. The discovery of salt deposits in the area led to the establishment of several salt mines and a thriving industry. The salt industry played a significant role in the development of the county, attracting more settlers and boosting the local economy.
During the American Civil War, Bullitt County experienced its share of turmoil. The county was geographically located between the Union and Confederate lines, and as a result, there were frequent skirmishes and military actions. The county suffered from both physical destruction and economic losses during this period.
In the 20th century, Bullitt County went through a period of modernization and growth. The county's population increased, and new industries, such as manufacturing and retail, emerged. Today, Bullitt County continues to grow and modernize, while still preserving its historical roots and celebrating its unique heritage.
Bullitt County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Bullitt County, Kentucky.
- 1796 - Bullitt County is founded and named after Alexander Scott Bullitt, the first Lieutenant Governor of Kentucky
- 1812 - Shepherdsville is established as the county seat of Bullitt County
- 1862 - John Morgan and his Confederate soldiers raid the county during the Civil War
- 1907 - Shepherdsville suffers a devastating fire that destroys much of the downtown area
- 1929 - Ku Klux Klan activities are reported in Bullitt County
- 1937 - Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest is opened in Clermont
- 1961 - Fort Knox Gold Vault is constructed in Bullitt County, becoming one of the largest gold depositories in the world
- 1974 - The Bullitt County Courthouse is added to the National Register of Historic Places
- 1996 - The Bullitt County History Museum is established in Shepherdsville