Historical Markers in McLean County, Kentucky
The first successful gold rush in the United States occurred in 1806 in Kentucky. The gold was found in the sand and gravel of the Ohio River and its tributaries.
About McLean County
McLean County Timeline
McLean County, KY has a rich history dating back to its early settlement in the late 18th century. The area was first occupied by Native American tribes, including the Cherokee and Shawnee, who were later expelled through various treaties. The county was officially established in 1854, named after Alney McLean, a Kentucky congressman.
During the 19th century, the economy of McLean County was primarily based on agriculture. With fertile soil and access to the Green and Ohio Rivers, farmers grew crops such as tobacco, corn, and wheat, while others raised livestock. The boom in the tobacco industry brought prosperity to the county, with tobacco warehouses, factories, and the opening of a tobacco auction house.
McLean County experienced significant growth during the early 20th century, with the advent of coal mining. Large deposits of coal were discovered, attracting miners and fueling the local economy. Coal mining became a major industry, leading to the establishment of mining towns, such as Beech Grove and Cleopatra. The coal industry flourished until the 1950s when coal production began to decline.
In recent years, McLean County has continued to evolve. While agriculture remains an important part of the county's economy, the focus has shifted to industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, and education. Today, McLean County offers a blend of rural charm and modern amenities, with a tight-knit community that values its heritage and looks towards the future.
During the 19th century, the economy of McLean County was primarily based on agriculture. With fertile soil and access to the Green and Ohio Rivers, farmers grew crops such as tobacco, corn, and wheat, while others raised livestock. The boom in the tobacco industry brought prosperity to the county, with tobacco warehouses, factories, and the opening of a tobacco auction house.
McLean County experienced significant growth during the early 20th century, with the advent of coal mining. Large deposits of coal were discovered, attracting miners and fueling the local economy. Coal mining became a major industry, leading to the establishment of mining towns, such as Beech Grove and Cleopatra. The coal industry flourished until the 1950s when coal production began to decline.
In recent years, McLean County has continued to evolve. While agriculture remains an important part of the county's economy, the focus has shifted to industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, and education. Today, McLean County offers a blend of rural charm and modern amenities, with a tight-knit community that values its heritage and looks towards the future.
McLean County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of McLean County, Kentucky.
- 1784 - McLean County is established as part of the western Virginia territory.
- 1815 - The county is officially recognized and named after Judge Alney McLean.
- 1820 - The first courthouse, made of logs, is build in McLean County.
- 1830s - The population of McLean County grows rapidly due to the construction of transportation routes and the opening of coal mines.
- 1854 - The city of Calhoun becomes the county seat of McLean County.
- 1900s - The oil industry booms in McLean County, leading to economic growth and development.
- 1978 - The Rumsey Bridge, a historic covered bridge, is added to the National Register of Historic Places.
- 2000s - McLean County focuses on promoting tourism and preserving its historical landmarks.