Historical Marker

Original Site of St. Michael's Parish


Begun in 1792, oldest parish in Nelson Co. and third oldest west of the Alleghenies. Home parish of Catherine Spalding, founder of the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth (SCN); Frances Gardiner, fourth Superior of SCNs; Richard Miles, first Bishop in the state of TN; Felix Newton Pitt, trailblazer in education; & Grace Newton Simpson, notable Catholic leader of the 19th century.

Stephen Badin, first priest ordained in U.S., was the first priest here. Guy Chabrat, first priest ordained in KY, was first resident pastor. The first Catholic parish in Louisville was a mission of St. Michael's. That parish is known today as the Cathedral of the Assumption. The church moved one mile east of this spot in 1831. The current church was built in 1883.

Dedicated September 17, 2017

Bishops Catholic Church
Audiobooks about the history of Kentucky.
The famous Hatfield-McCoy feud, a long-running and violent conflict between two Appalachian families, began in Kentucky in the late 19th century.
Kentucky random facts
Nelson County, located in the state of Kentucky, has a rich and diverse history that dates back to its settlement in the late 18th century. The area was initially inhabited by indigenous tribes, including the Shawnee, before European settlers arrived. In 1785, a group of pioneers led by Thomas Witherby established the first permanent settlement in the county, which would later become known as Bardstown. The town was named after the brothers David and William Bard, who surveyed and mapped the area.

During the early years of settlement, Nelson County's economy thrived as an agricultural hub, with tobacco being a primary cash crop. The county's fertile soil and conducive climate made it ideal for farming, and as a result, many plantations were established. In addition to tobacco, corn, hemp, and livestock also contributed to the county's agricultural success.

In the early 19th century, Bardstown became an important cultural and political center in Kentucky. It was designated as the state's first capital in 1792 and was home to the first Catholic Diocese west of the Allegheny Mountains. Bardstown also played a significant role in the history of bourbon production, with several distilleries being established in the area.

Throughout its history, Nelson County experienced various events that shaped its growth and development. The county was heavily impacted by the Civil War, as both Union and Confederate forces occupied the area at different times. The Battle of Bardstown, fought in 1862, resulted in the county being divided between the Union and Confederate armies.

Today, Nelson County continues to be a thriving community, blending its historical charm with modern amenities. Bardstown, with its beautiful historic district, is a popular tourist destination known for its bourbon heritage and well-preserved architecture. The county's agricultural roots can still be seen in its many farms and vineyards, and it remains an important player in Kentucky's bourbon industry. Nelson County's rich history and natural beauty make it a fascinating destination for both residents and visitors alike.

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

  • 1784 - Nelson County is established by the Virginia General Assembly.
  • 1808 - The county seat is established in Bardstown.
  • 1811 - The first Catholic cathedral west of the Alleghenies, Basilica of Saint Joseph Proto-Cathedral, is completed in Bardstown.
  • 1864 - Confederate forces under John Hunt Morgan unsuccessfully attack Bardstown.
  • 1922 - Heaven Hill Distilleries is founded, becoming a major bourbon producer in the county.
  • 1933 - The repeal of Prohibition leads to a boom in the bourbon industry in Nelson County.
  • 1970 - The Heaven Hill Distilleries fire destroys several aging warehouses and 90,000 barrels of bourbon.
  • 1996 - The Oscar Getz Museum of Whiskey History opens in Bardstown.
  • 2004 - My Old Kentucky Home State Park is recognized as a National Historic Landmark.