Historical Marker

Gerard Furnace


Built 21/4 miles east in 1854 by Browder, Kennedy and Co. Inside it was 24 ft. high and 101/2 ft. across at widest point, burning locally made charcoal fuel. Its air blast machinery was powered by steam. In 34 weeks of 1857, it produced 1,595 tons of pig iron, mostly shipped by steamboats on Tennessee River. Did not operate after 1858. See the other side.

(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. Charcoal-furnace era ended in 1880s with depletion of ore and timber and use of modern methods

Iron Industry
The largest non-nuclear explosion in US history occurred in 1958 in Fleming County, Kentucky, when a natural gas storage cavern exploded, killing several people and destroying nearby homes.
Kentucky random facts
Calloway County, KY, located in western Kentucky, has a rich history that dates back to the early 19th century. The area was first settled by European settlers in the late 18th century, attracted by its fertile land and natural resources. The land that is now Calloway County was primarily inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Chickasaw and Shawnee.

In 1822, Calloway County was officially established and named after Colonel Richard Callaway, a prominent pioneer from Virginia. The county quickly grew and flourished, with agriculture playing a vital role in its economy. The fertile soil supported large-scale farming, mainly focused on tobacco, corn, and later, wheat.

Throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, Calloway County experienced significant growth and development. The completion of the railroad in the late 19th century brought increased connectivity and trade opportunities, contributing to the county's economic progress. The establishment of Murray State University in 1922 also played a crucial role in the county's development, attracting students, academics, and a range of cultural and sporting events.

Calloway County has a diverse and vibrant community, with a strong emphasis on education and agriculture. Today, it remains an important agricultural center, known for its production of tobacco, corn, soybeans, and livestock. The county continues to embrace its history while adapting to the challenges and opportunities of the modern era, ensuring a promising future for its residents.

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

  • 1822: Calloway County, KY, is established by the Kentucky General Assembly.
  • 1823: The county is named in honor of Colonel Richard Callaway, a prominent early settler.
  • 1842: Murray, the county seat, is established and becomes a hub of economic activity.
  • 1859: The completion of the Memphis, Clarksville and Louisville Railroad enhances transportation in the county.
  • 1861-1865: Calloway County is affected by the American Civil War.
  • 1870s: Agriculture flourishes in the county, with tobacco and corn being major crops.
  • 1892: The Murray State Normal School, precursor to Murray State University, is established.
  • 1937: Kentucky Dam is completed, creating Kentucky Lake and further developing the tourism industry.
  • 1942-1945: Calloway County contributes to the war effort during World War II.
  • 1968: Murray State University achieves university status.
  • 2000s: Calloway County experiences population growth and economic diversification.