Historical Marker

Morgantown/ Daniel Morgan

Historical marker location:
Morgantown, Kentucky
( Main St., Morgantown)

Morgantown- The county seat of Butler Co., it was originally called Funkhouser Hill. It was renamed Morgan Town in Dec. 1810 to honor Revolutionary War officer Daniel Morgan and was incorporated in 1813. It began as a settlement of Revolutionary War veterans, who were awarded land for military service, and pioneer settlers heading west.

(Reverse) Daniel Morgan- Born ca. 1735, he was a hero of the American Revolution. He served as a civilian teamster in French & Indian War and in Canada as an officer in Va. colonial militia. His defeat of Col. Tarleton at Cowpens, in S.C., was considered a tactical masterpiece for which he received a gold medal from Congress. Elected to United States Congress & served 1 term before he died in Va., 1802

Daniel Morgan Revolutionary War
Kentucky was originally part of Virginia and was known as the "Kentucky County" until it became a separate state in 1792.
Kentucky random facts
Butler County, located in the southwestern part of the state of Kentucky, has a rich and varied history that dates back to the early 19th century. Originally inhabited by Native American tribes, the area was later settled by pioneers who were drawn to the fertile land and abundant natural resources.

The county was officially established in 1810 and named after General Richard Butler, a Revolutionary War hero. In its early years, Butler County was primarily an agricultural region, with farming and livestock playing a vital role in the local economy. The area quickly developed into a thriving community, with a number of small towns and villages sprouting up throughout the county.

During the Civil War, Butler County found itself torn apart by the conflict. Being located on the border between the Union and Confederate states, the area experienced significant unrest and violence. Many of its residents joined the Confederate Army, while others remained loyal to the Union. The county's strategic location also made it a target for both sides, leading to numerous skirmishes and battles.

In the post-war years, Butler County experienced a period of growth and recovery. The agricultural industry continued to flourish, with tobacco becoming a major cash crop. The county also saw the development of coal mining operations, further diversifying its economy. Over the years, Butler County has faced various challenges but has remained a resilient and vibrant community, proud of its history and dedicated to preserving its unique heritage.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Butler County, Kentucky.

  • 1810 - Butler County is formed from sections of Logan and Ohio counties.
  • 1813 - The county officially becomes a political entity.
  • 1818 - Morgantown is established as the county seat.
  • 1836 - A fire destroys most of Morgantown, leading to its rebuilding.
  • 1861-1865 - Many Butler County residents serve in the Confederate Army during the Civil War.
  • 1873 - The current Butler County Courthouse is built.
  • 1925 - Mammoth Cave National Park is established, partially located in Butler County.
  • 1957 - The Green River Dam is completed, creating the Green River Lake.
  • 1997 - Butler County celebrates its bicentennial anniversary.
  • 2006 - The Butler County Veterans Memorial Park is dedicated.