Grave of Lucy Virgin Downs, 1769-1847 ->1,000 feet west
The first white child born of American parents, west of the Allegheny Mountains-Mrs. Lucy Virgin Downs-was a resident of Oldtown, Greenup County, from 1807 until her death in 1847. She was the daughter of Jeremiah and Lucy Virgin, born September 17, 1769, in what is now Fayette County, Pennsylvania, near Uniontown, which was then called Beesontown. In 1790, with her parents and brother, Brice, she came to Limestone, now Maysville, Kentucky. In 1792, she and her brother moved to Cincinnati. She was married there to John Downs September 20, 1800 under a marriage license issued by General Arthur St. Clair, as Governor of the Northwest Territory. In June, 1845, at a family gathering, she related that General George Washington visited her father and a neighbor in 1773, when he was surveying a tract in Pennsylvania that was afterwards called Washington Bottoms. Many of her descendants are still living in this part of Kentucky. This marker erected under the terms of the will of the late Jennie Scott Osenton, great-granddaughter of Lucy Virgin Downs.
Dedicated September 15, 1963
Kentucky is known as the "Bluegrass State" because of the bluegrass that grows in many of its pastures.
In its early years, Greenup County thrived as an agricultural community, with farmers cultivating crops such as tobacco, corn, and wheat. The Ohio River, which borders the county, played a significant role in the county's development, serving as a vital transportation route for both goods and people.
The county became an important center for trade and commerce, attracting merchants and entrepreneurs who established businesses along the riverfront. Communities like Greenup, Flatwoods, and Raceland began to emerge as thriving towns. The construction of railroads in the late 19th century further boosted the county's economy and connectivity.
Throughout its history, Greenup County has faced challenges and triumphs. It played a role in the Civil War, with skirmishes and battles occurring in the area. The county also experienced economic boom and decline; industries like coal mining and metal manufacturing brought prosperity in the early 20th century, but later faced decline and closure.
Today, Greenup County continues to be a vibrant community with a diverse economy. Its natural beauty, including forests, rivers, and recreational areas, draws visitors from near and far. The county's history and heritage are celebrated through various events and landmarks, preserving the memories of the past while embracing the opportunities of the future.
Greenup County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Greenup County, Kentucky.
- 1803 - Greenup County was formed and established on December 12.
- 1804 - The county's first courthouse was constructed in the town of Greenupsburg.
- 1833 - Russellville was designated as the new county seat, replacing Greenupsburg.
- 1862 - During the Civil War, the county experienced significant military activity.
- 1867 - The Iron Railroad Bridge over the Ohio River opened, connecting the county to Ohio.
- 1930s - The Great Depression led to economic hardship, but the Works Progress Administration (WPA) provided relief through various projects.
- 1970s - The construction of the Greenup Locks and Dam on the Ohio River brought economic growth and increased river traffic.
- 1990s - Industrial development increased due to the construction of the Kentucky Electric Steel Plant.
- 2010s - Greenup County continued to develop and diversify its economy while preserving its rich history and natural beauty.