Historical Marker

Ft. Thomas Army Post

Historical marker location:
Ft. Thomas, Kentucky
( Ft. Thomas Post, Ft. Thomas)

Established by Congress, 1887. Constructed at cost of $3,500,000 on about 111 acres, jurisdiction of which was ceded to U.S. by Kentucky Legislature, 1888. Post was designated Ft. Thomas, 1890. First commander was Col. Melville Cochran; first garrison two 6th infantry companies. Later parts of 2, 3, 4, 9, 10th Infantry Regiments were here. Now V.A. Hosp.(Reverse) Rock of Chickamauga - Gen. George Henry Thomas for whom post was named. Born Va., 1816; West Point graduate. In Indian campaigns and Mexican War. In the Civil War, from Mill Springs, Ky., Jan. 1862, to Nashville, Tenn., Dec. 1864, he successfully led Federal forces in many principal engagements. Rated one of four top Union generals. Pacific Div. Commander at death, 1870

Forts and Stations Mexican War West Point
Kentucky was the site of many important battles during the American Civil War, including the Battle of Perryville, which was the largest battle fought in the state.
Kentucky random facts
Campbell County, Kentucky, is situated in the northern part of the state and has a rich and diverse history. The county was established on December 17, 1794, and was named after Colonel John Campbell, a soldier in the Revolutionary War. Initially, Campbell County encompassed a large area and included parts of present-day Kenton, Pendleton, and Boone counties.

During its early history, Campbell County saw significant development due to its prime location along the Ohio River. The county became a hub for transportation and trade, with steamboats and river barges playing a crucial role in its economic growth. The city of Newport, located within Campbell County, became a major port along the Ohio River, attracting businesses and immigrants.

In the mid-19th century, Campbell County experienced rapid industrialization, fueled by the construction of railroads and the establishment of manufacturing industries. The county became known for its ironworks, distilleries, and tobacco warehouses. Newport flourished as a bustling city, becoming a center for entertainment, nightlife, and gambling, earning it the nickname "Sin City."

However, the early 20th century brought challenges to Campbell County. Prohibition, which came into effect in 1919, dealt a blow to the county's flourishing distillery industry. Additionally, the decline of the river trade and the Great Depression impacted the region economically. In the latter half of the 20th century, Campbell County experienced a transformation, with urban development projects and initiatives for economic revival, such as the construction of the Newport on the Levee entertainment complex.

Today, Campbell County continues to evolve as a dynamic community. It is home to a diverse population and offers a mix of suburban and rural areas. The county boasts a rich cultural heritage, historical landmarks, and natural beauty, making it an attractive place to live, work, and visit.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Campbell County, Kentucky.

  • 1795: Campbell County is established from parts of Mason, Scott, and Harrison counties.
  • 1803: Newport, the county seat, is incorporated as a town.
  • 1823: Campbell County Courthouse is completed in Newport.
  • 1837: Burlington, another town in Campbell County, is incorporated.
  • 1861-1865: Campbell County residents actively participate in the Civil War.
  • 1889: Newport becomes a city.
  • 1895: Bellevue, Dayton, and Fort Thomas are incorporated as cities.
  • 1926: Campbell County Memorial Bridge is opened, connecting Newport and Cincinnati.
  • 1959: Interstate 471 is completed, facilitating transportation through the county.
  • 1961: Northern Kentucky University is founded in Highland Heights.
  • 1997: Campbell County Historic Preservation Board is established to protect historical sites.
  • 2018: Population of Campbell County reaches over 92,000 residents.