Historical Marker

U.S. Research and Education Center


Established by Ky. legislature in 1924 as Western Ky. Sub-experiment Station of the Univ. of Kentucky College of Agriculture. Original 400 acres donated by Caldwell Co. citizens. S. J. Lowry was supt., 1924-63. First office/service building was completed in 1931. The Research and Extension Building was dedicated in 1980

  A brief timeline of the history of the University Of Kentucky

The University of Kentucky, located in Lexington, Kentucky, has a rich history that spans over 150 years. Here is a brief timeline highlighting key moments in the university's development:

  • 1865: The Agricultural and Mechanical College of Kentucky is established as a land-grant institution under the Morrill Act of 1862. The institution's purpose is to provide education in agriculture, mechanical arts, and other practical sciences.

  • 1878: The institution is renamed the State College of Kentucky.

  • 1908: The State College becomes the University of Kentucky, signifying its expanded educational offerings and growing stature.

  • 1942: The university's administration forms an agreement with the United States Navy to establish the Navy's first flight-training program during World War II. This program becomes known as the UK College Training Detachment.

  • 1949: The University of Kentucky integrates its student body, becoming one of the first public universities in the South to do so.

  • 1954: The UK College of Law is desegregated, marking an important step in the university's commitment to racial equality and diversity.

  • 1997: The University of Kentucky establishes the Center for Applied Energy Research, focusing on research and development in the field of energy resources.

  • 2002: The UK HealthCare system is formed, combining the university's hospital, clinics, and medical education programs under one umbrella.

  • 2011: The university inaugurates its 12th president, Dr. Eli Capilouto, who continues to lead the institution's growth and progress.

  • 2012: The UK College of Pharmacy opens the Pharmaceutical Sciences Building, featuring state-of-the-art research and teaching facilities.

  • 2020: The COVID-19 pandemic affects the university, leading to the adoption of remote learning and other measures to ensure the safety of the campus community.

Throughout its history, the University of Kentucky has grown into a prominent research university with a wide range of academic programs and a strong emphasis on athletics, particularly basketball. Today, it continues to serve as a hub of education, innovation, and cultural activity in the Commonwealth of Kentucky.

University of Kentucky
The famous African-American author and poet, Langston Hughes, spent much of his childhood in Lexington, Kentucky.
Kentucky random facts
Caldwell County, located in southwestern Kentucky, has a rich history dating back to its establishment in 1809. Originally inhabited by Native American tribes, the area was first explored by European settlers in the late 18th century. By the early 19th century, the region saw an influx of settlers, primarily from Virginia and North Carolina, who were drawn to the fertile land and abundant resources.

During the early years of Caldwell County, agriculture played a significant role in its economy. The fertile soil proved ideal for cultivating crops such as tobacco, corn, and wheat. As a result, plantations and farms flourished, and the county became known for its agricultural productivity. The county seat, Princeton, was established in 1820 and named after a prominent Revolutionary War figure, Colonel William Prince.

The 19th century brought significant changes to Caldwell County. With the rise of the steamboat industry, the Cumberland and Tennessee Rivers became major transportation corridors, providing opportunities for trade and commerce. This led to the growth of towns such as Eddyville and Fredonia, which served as essential trading centers for local goods.

During the Civil War, Caldwell County found itself divided. As a border state, Kentucky was torn between Union and Confederate loyalties. The county experienced skirmishes and tensions between opposing factions, leaving a lasting impact on the community. After the war, Caldwell County slowly rebuilt its economy, transitioning from a primarily agricultural-based economy to a more diversified one, incorporating manufacturing and other industries.

Today, Caldwell County retains its agricultural heritage, with farming remaining an essential part of the local economy. It is also home to natural attractions such as the Pennyrile State Forest and Lake Barkley, which draw visitors from near and far. With a blend of historical significance and natural beauty, Caldwell County continues to thrive and preserve its unique heritage.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Caldwell County, Kentucky.

  • 1784 - Caldwell County is created as part of Christian County
  • 1812 - Caldwell County is officially established as a separate county
  • 1820 - Princeton is named the county seat of Caldwell County
  • 1837 - The community of Eddyville is incorporated
  • 1861-1865 - Caldwell County residents serve in the Civil War on both sides
  • 1882 - The Kentucky State Penitentiary is constructed in Eddyville
  • 1922 - The first oil wells are drilled in Caldwell County, leading to an oil boom
  • 1937 - The historic Smithland Lock and Dam on the Cumberland River is completed
  • 1950s - The construction of the Barkley Dam creates Lake Barkley, attracting tourism
  • 1997 - A tornado causes significant damage in Caldwell County