Historical Marker

Captain John Holder


COLONEL JOHN HOLDER - John Holder commanded at Fort Boonesborough in 1779 and est. Holder’s Station near the mouth of Lower Howard’s Creek in 1782. He led a garrison at Vincennes in George Roger Clark’s 1786 Wabash Campaign & was appointed a justice of Clark Co. and Lt. Col. of the 17th Regiment of the KY militia in 1792. Holder married Col. Richard Callaway’s daughter, Fanny. (Original text) An outstanding pioneer at Fort Boonesborough, 1776-81. Among the rescuers of Callaway and Boone girls captured by Indians. Named colonel of militia, 1779. Engaged in expeditions against Indians. In 1781 built Holder's Station and operated boatyard at the mouth of Howard's Creek. Led in the Battle of Upper Blue Licks, 1782. Trustee of Winchester, justice Co. Court.

HOWARD'S CREEK INDUSTRIAL CENTER - Holder had a plantation, ferry, boatyard, inspection warehouse, and store and operated a mill nearby. His enterprises led to one of Kentucky’s early industrial areas along Lower Howard’s Creek. The industrial center included water- powered mills, distilleries, blacksmith shops, rock quarries, tanneries, a stone shop, and a woolen factory. Updated December 2020

Battle of Blue Licks Boonesborough Forts and Stations Indians
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Clark County, located in the northeastern region of the state of Kentucky, has a rich history that dates back to its founding in 1792. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Shawnee and Cherokee, who were displaced by European settlers in the late 18th century. The county was named after Revolutionary War hero George Rogers Clark, who played a crucial role in securing the Northwest Territory for the United States.

The fertile land along the Kentucky River attracted many pioneers and adventurers, leading to the establishment of settlements in the area. Boonesborough, one of the first permanent settlements in Kentucky, was founded in 1775 and became an important trading post. Clark County was carved out of Bourbon and Fayette counties in 1792, with Winchester becoming the county seat.

Throughout the 19th century, Clark County experienced rapid growth and development. Agriculture, particularly tobacco farming, became the mainstay of the local economy. The county's strong agricultural base also fostered the growth of several manufacturing industries, including distilleries and tobacco processing plants. The construction of railroads in the mid-19th century further spurred economic growth and improved transportation.

Clark County played a significant role during the Civil War. Due to its strategic location, the county was contested territory, with both Union and Confederate forces vying for control. The Battle of Winchester in 1862 saw Union troops successfully defending the county seat against Confederate forces. The war brought destruction and turmoil to the area, but Clark County emerged from this period with its resilience intact.

In the decades that followed, Clark County continued to evolve and diversify its economy. The growth of manufacturing, healthcare, education, and tourism have all contributed to the county's development. Today, Clark County stands as a vibrant community that embraces its historical roots while embracing progress and innovation.

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

  • 1785: Clark County is founded and named after Revolutionary War hero George Rogers Clark.
  • 1792: Kentucky becomes the 15th state in the United States.
  • 1803: Winchester, the county seat of Clark County, is officially established.
  • 1812-1815: Clark County residents serve in the War of 1812.
  • 1815: Daniel Boone, explorer and frontiersman, dies in Clark County.
  • 1861-1865: Many Clark County residents fight for the Confederate States of America during the American Civil War.
  • 1864: General John Hunt Morgan and his Confederate raiders pass through Clark County during their famous raid.
  • 1896: Winchester Opera House is built, becoming an important cultural center in the county.
  • 1930s-1940s: Clark County experiences economic growth due to increased coal mining and manufacturing industries.
  • 1961: Interstate 64 is completed, connecting Clark County to major cities and facilitating economic development.
  • 2003: The Bluegrass Army Depot, an important military installation in the county, celebrates its 60th anniversary.