Class Competitions
Historical marker location:On American campuses in the 1900s, freshman and sophomore classes had a variety of competitions. The University of Kentucky was no exception. An early rivalry was the annual flag rush in which one class would defend their flag from being captured by a rush of competitors. Replacing the annual flag rush in 1913 was the tug of war across Clifton Pond. Class of 2012
(Reverse) Tug of War- Students were granted a half-day holiday for the annual drenching, and crowds could reach more than 2,000 for the event. The freshman class was usually victorious in the battle until teams of equal size were established in 1923. Seniors supervised to ensure fair play, and the victors would storm downtown in celebration. Class of 2012
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.
In 1937, the town of Maysville, Kentucky, became the site of the first public works project built under President Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal program.
In the early years of its settlement, Fayette County became a critical hub for traders and pioneers heading westward. The city of Lexington, the county seat, quickly developed into a thriving center of commerce and education. Known as the "Athens of the West," Lexington attracted numerous intellectuals and scholars, establishing it as a leading educational and cultural center in the region.
Fayette County also played a crucial role in the growth of Kentucky's horse industry. The county's fertile bluegrass land proved ideal for raising thoroughbred horses, and Lexington became known as the "Horse Capital of the World." The area's world-renowned horse farms and racetracks have contributed significantly to the county's economy and cultural identity.
Throughout its history, Fayette County has faced challenges and experienced periods of growth and decline. It was witness to key historical events such as the American Civil War when the county was divided between Union and Confederate sympathizers. After the war, the county experienced economic growth and urban development, but also faced challenges related to racial segregation and civil rights struggles.
In recent years, Fayette County has continued to evolve and adapt to changing times. Today, it is a diverse and vibrant county, known for its cultural events, educational institutions, and beautiful landscapes. Fayette County's history serves as a testament to the resilience and spirit of its people, and it remains an important part of Kentucky's heritage.
Fayette County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Fayette County, Kentucky.
- 1775 - Daniel Boone explores the area now known as Fayette County
- 1779 - The town of Lexington is established
- 1780 - Fayette County is officially formed
- 1792 - Kentucky becomes the 15th state in the United States
- 1796 - The Transylvania University is founded in Lexington
- 1818 - Ashland, the estate of Henry Clay, is completed
- 1833 - Lexington and Fayette County merge governments to create the Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government
- 1850s - The area becomes an important center for horse breeding and racing
- 1862 - Mary Todd Lincoln, wife of President Abraham Lincoln, is born in Lexington
- 1872 - The University of Kentucky is founded as the Agricultural and Mechanical College of Kentucky
- 1910 - The Lexington Horse Show, now known as the Kentucky Horse Park, begins
- 1927 - The annual Keeneland Race Course opens
- 1940s - The area experiences significant growth due to the World War II defense industry and training centers
- 1961 - IBM establishes a major manufacturing facility in Lexington
- 1978 - Lexington hosts the first World Equestrian Games held in the United States
- 1999 - The Lexington Public Library opens its new central location