Historical Marker

Hanson


This town, named for Henry B. Hanson, the civil engineer who planned it, was founded in 1869 and incorporated in 1873. Hanson became bustling tobacco center. "Hanson Twist" tobacco was shipped throughout the U.S. Four costly fires in 1889, 1894, 1905, and 1906, changed the town's history. Presented by Citizens for Historic Preservation

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The word "Kentucky" is derived from the Native American word "ken-tah-ten," which means "land of tomorrow."
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Hopkins County, Kentucky has a rich and diverse history that dates back to the early 19th century. The county was officially established in 1806 and named after General Samuel Hopkins, a renowned soldier who fought during the Revolutionary War. Prior to its settlement, the area was home to various Native American tribes, including the Cherokee and Shawnee.

The industrialization of Hopkins County began in the late 1800s when coal mining became a dominant industry. The vast coal reserves in the region attracted numerous immigrants and led to the establishment of mining towns such as Madisonville and Dawson Springs. These towns saw phenomenal growth as the coal industry flourished, and many residents found employment in the mines.

Hopkins County played a significant role during World War II as it housed a German Prisoner of War camp. The camp, located near Earlington, held around 1,800 German soldiers who provided labor for local industries and farms. This unique aspect of Hopkins County's history played a part in strengthening the local economy during the war years.

Today, Hopkins County remains an important contributor to Kentucky's economy. While the coal industry has declined in recent decades, the county has diversified its economy and focused on sectors such as manufacturing, healthcare, and tourism. The historic sites, natural beauty, and vibrant community make Hopkins County an attractive place to live and visit, preserving its history while embracing the future.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Hopkins County, Kentucky.

  • 1806 - Hopkins County was established on January 2 by the Kentucky General Assembly.
  • 1812 - The first courthouse in Hopkins County was completed.
  • 1826 - The town of Madisonville was established and named after President James Madison.
  • 1854 - The first railroad, Henderson and Nashville Railroad, reached Madisonville.
  • 1900 - The first telephone exchange was established in Madisonville.
  • 1936 - The Great Flood of 1936 caused significant devastation in Hopkins County.
  • 1955 - The Pennyrile Electric Cooperative was formed, bringing electricity to rural areas of the county.
  • 1968 - Hopkins County Central High School was formed through the consolidation of several smaller high schools.
  • 1970 - Pennyrile State Forest was established in Hopkins County.
  • 1988 - The Western Kentucky Parkway was completed, providing improved transportation access.
  • 1999 - The Hopkins County Coal Mine Disaster occurred, resulting in the deaths of two miners.