Louisville to Bardstown Turnpike Milestones and Roadbed

a.k.a. JFL-587 ; BUM-81; SP-416; NE-502; NE-501; NE-628; NE-500; NE-627; NEB-570; BU-350

Along and near US 31E from Louisville to Bardstown, Louisville, KY
Local significance of the district:
Engineering; Transportation

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2019.

The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.

The word "Kentucky" is derived from the Native American word "ken-tah-ten," which means "land of tomorrow."
Bullitt County, Kentucky, located in the north-central part of the state, has a rich and diverse history that dates back to the late 18th century. The county was officially established in 1796 and was named after Alexander Scott Bullitt, a prominent lawyer and statesman in Kentucky.

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.

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