First Log Cabin
Historical marker location:
Paducah, Kentucky
( lst & Broadway, East side of flood wall, Paducah)
Here in April 1821, three years after the Jackson Purchase, the first home, a round-log cabin, was built by James and William Pore. Only a few Indians remained. James Davis, his wife, and three sons built a shelter soon after. In next five years a score or more settled along the Tennessee River. Town was first named Pekin. Marker by Greater Paducah Chamber of Commerce.
Reverse
First Frame House - Was built by Albert Hayes in 1826 a few feet south of here. It had three rooms, was "quite attractive in those days" and bore the name "Fox House." Tradition is that Gen. William Clark stayed here when he platted town, May 26, 1827, and changed its name, Pekin, to Paducah, in honor of Chief Paduke. Marker by Greater Paducah Chamber of Commerce
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Kentucky was originally part of Virginia and was known as the "Kentucky County" until it became a separate state in 1792.
About McCracken County
McCracken County Timeline
McCracken County, located in the western part of Kentucky, has a rich and diverse history. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Chickasaw and Shawnee, who relied on the abundant natural resources in the region. The first European settlers arrived in the late 18th century and established trading posts along the Ohio River, which played a crucial role in the county's early development.
In the early 19th century, McCracken County grew rapidly due to its strategic location and fertile land. The county was named after a prominent local lawyer and politician, Captain Harrison McCracken, who played a significant role in its early development. The city of Paducah, now the county seat, was officially established in 1830 and quickly became a commercial and transportation hub. The construction of railroads in the mid-19th century further promoted economic growth and attracted businesses and industries to the area.
McCracken County also experienced the challenges and impacts of the Civil War. With its location on the border of the Union and Confederacy, the county was a crucial strategic point. Paducah was occupied by Union troops early in the war and served as a major supply depot. The county also witnessed several skirmishes and played a role in the overall conflict. After the war, McCracken County focused on rebuilding its economy and infrastructure, and agriculture remained a vital industry.
Throughout the 20th century, McCracken County continued to evolve and adapt to changing economic conditions. The county experienced industrial growth with the establishment of manufacturing plants, and Paducah became known as a regional medical, retail, and cultural center. Today, McCracken County remains an important area in western Kentucky, blending its rich history with a vibrant present and a promising future.
In the early 19th century, McCracken County grew rapidly due to its strategic location and fertile land. The county was named after a prominent local lawyer and politician, Captain Harrison McCracken, who played a significant role in its early development. The city of Paducah, now the county seat, was officially established in 1830 and quickly became a commercial and transportation hub. The construction of railroads in the mid-19th century further promoted economic growth and attracted businesses and industries to the area.
McCracken County also experienced the challenges and impacts of the Civil War. With its location on the border of the Union and Confederacy, the county was a crucial strategic point. Paducah was occupied by Union troops early in the war and served as a major supply depot. The county also witnessed several skirmishes and played a role in the overall conflict. After the war, McCracken County focused on rebuilding its economy and infrastructure, and agriculture remained a vital industry.
Throughout the 20th century, McCracken County continued to evolve and adapt to changing economic conditions. The county experienced industrial growth with the establishment of manufacturing plants, and Paducah became known as a regional medical, retail, and cultural center. Today, McCracken County remains an important area in western Kentucky, blending its rich history with a vibrant present and a promising future.
McCracken County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of McCracken County, Kentucky.
- 1825: McCracken County is established on January 17.
- 1836: Paducah, the county seat, is incorporated as a city.
- 1861-1865: McCracken County experiences significant impact during the American Civil War.
- 1890: The Illinois Central Railroad Bridge is completed, connecting Paducah with Illinois.
- 1905: Paducah becomes home to the first municipal airport in Kentucky.
- 1950s-1970s: McCracken County sees economic growth due to the establishment of chemical and manufacturing plants.
- 2004: The National Quilt Museum opens in Paducah, promoting cultural tourism in the area.
- 2019: The Four Rivers Center for the Performing Arts celebrates its 10th anniversary in Paducah.