Historical Markers in Henderson County, Kentucky
A Civil War Action
Albert B. "Happy" Chandler
Albert B. "Happy" Chandler, 1898-1991
Artist-Naturalist
Audubon Saw and Grist Mill
Augustus Owsley Stanley
County Formed, Named
Fernwood Cemetery
First Kentucky Consumer Rural Cooperative Electricity
Gen. Samuel Hopkins
Home of Lucy Furman
Kimmel Homestead
Lewis and Clark in Kentucky- Henderson
Louis Marshall "Grandpa" Jones
Mother's Day
Nurse Mary W. Arvin, 1879-1947
St. Paul's Episcopal Church
The African Baptist Church
Transylvania Company
About Henderson County
Henderson County Timeline
Henderson County, Kentucky, located in the western part of the state, has a rich history that dates back many centuries. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Shawnee and Cherokee, who relied on the fertile land for hunting and agriculture. European settlers began arriving in the late 18th century, with James Smith establishing one of the first permanent settlements, known as Red Banks, in 1797.
In the early 19th century, Henderson County experienced rapid growth and development thanks to its location along the Ohio River. The town of Henderson was officially established in 1810 and quickly became a hub for river trade and commerce. The county also played a significant role in the American Civil War, with both Union and Confederate troops occupying the area at different times. The Battle of Sacramento, fought in 1862, took place in Henderson County and was a Union victory.
During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Henderson County thrived due to its rich agricultural resources. Tobacco and corn became staple crops, and the county became known for its tobacco warehouses and milling facilities. The county's industrial sector also grew, with the establishment of coal mines and manufacturing plants. Henderson even briefly became the largest producer of shipping goods in the state.
In the modern era, Henderson County continues to flourish as a vibrant community. It embraces its historical roots while also embracing new opportunities for economic growth. The county is known for its natural beauty, including the scenic Ohio Riverfront and numerous parks and recreational areas. Today, Henderson County remains a thriving part of western Kentucky, with a strong sense of community and a dedication to preserving its rich history.
In the early 19th century, Henderson County experienced rapid growth and development thanks to its location along the Ohio River. The town of Henderson was officially established in 1810 and quickly became a hub for river trade and commerce. The county also played a significant role in the American Civil War, with both Union and Confederate troops occupying the area at different times. The Battle of Sacramento, fought in 1862, took place in Henderson County and was a Union victory.
During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Henderson County thrived due to its rich agricultural resources. Tobacco and corn became staple crops, and the county became known for its tobacco warehouses and milling facilities. The county's industrial sector also grew, with the establishment of coal mines and manufacturing plants. Henderson even briefly became the largest producer of shipping goods in the state.
In the modern era, Henderson County continues to flourish as a vibrant community. It embraces its historical roots while also embracing new opportunities for economic growth. The county is known for its natural beauty, including the scenic Ohio Riverfront and numerous parks and recreational areas. Today, Henderson County remains a thriving part of western Kentucky, with a strong sense of community and a dedication to preserving its rich history.
Henderson County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Henderson County, Kentucky.
- 1799 - Henderson County was established on April 20, 1799.
- 1801 - The first courthouse was built in Henderson.
- 1853 - The Ohio River flood caused significant damage to the county.
- 1861-1865 - Henderson County residents actively participated in the American Civil War.
- 1870 - The Louisville and Nashville Railroad reached Henderson.
- 1895 - The first hydroelectric plant was established on the Green River.
- 1917-1918 - Henderson County contributed soldiers to World War I.
- 1924 - The infamous Clyde Barrow, of Bonnie and Clyde fame, started his criminal career in Henderson County.
- 1930s - The Great Depression heavily affected the county.
- 1956 - Uniontown was the site of a tragic school bus accident that led to major changes in school bus safety standards.
- 1965 - The Diversion Channel was constructed to mitigate flooding issues in the county.
- 2005 - The riverboat casino Tropicana Evansville opened nearby, bringing economic benefits to the area.