Albert B. "Happy" Chandler, 1898-1991

This Henderson County native was state senator and lt. gov. before becoming governor in 1935 & 1955. U.S. senator, 1939-45. As baseball commissioner, he approved contract making Jackie Robinson first modern black major league player in 1947. Chandler was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1982.

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This colorful orator and two-term governor was born near Corydon, Ky. As governor, Chandler was the driving force behind establishment of the Univ. of Ky. Medical Center, later named in his honor. Buried at Pisgah Presbyterian Church in Versailles. Park Field in Henderson was site of the 1996 Bambino World Series dedicated to “Happy” Chandler

A brief timeline of the history of the University Of Kentucky

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.

Baseball Hall of Fame Governors University of Kentucky Baseball

Audiobooks about the history of Kentucky.

The largest non-nuclear explosion in US history occurred in 1958 in Fleming County, Kentucky, when a natural gas storage cavern exploded, killing several people and destroying nearby homes.

About Henderson County

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.

Henderson County Timeline

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history 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.