Pulaski County, 1799


Kentucky's 27th formed, its territory taken from Lincoln and Green Counties, was named for Count Casimir Pulaski, Polish patriot and soldier of liberty. He came to US when he learned of the Colonies' fight for freedom. A brigadier general in Revolution, he gave his life to the cause of America, Oct. 11, 1779. Counties in 7 states named for him.

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Somerset - Established as county seat, 1801, on 40 acres given by William Dodson. This site picked because of nearby spring; the path to it became the town's most traveled street. The first courthouse built of logs in 1801. Three have since been built, present one in 1871. Kentucky's first raw silk produced here, 1842, by Cyrenius Wait. City incorporated in 1888

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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.
Pulaski County, Kentucky is a county located in the southeastern part of the state. It was established on December 10, 1798, and named after Casimir Pulaski, a Polish hero of the American Revolution. The area that is now Pulaski County was originally home to Native American tribes, including the Cherokee and Shawnee.

In the early 19th century, settlers began to move into the area, attracted by the rich natural resources and fertile land. The arrival of the railroad in the 1860s brought further growth and development to the county, as it facilitated transportation of goods and people. Agriculture played a major role in the county's economy, with tobacco, corn, and wheat being the primary crops.

During the American Civil War, Pulaski County was divided in its loyalties, with some residents supporting the Union and others the Confederacy. The county experienced several skirmishes and raids, including the Battle of Mill Springs in 1862, which was a Union victory and helped secure control over eastern Kentucky.

In the 20th century, Pulaski County experienced significant industrial growth and economic diversification. The construction of Lake Cumberland in the 1950s provided opportunities for recreation and tourism, as well as hydroelectric power generation. Today, the county is known for its natural beauty, outdoor recreational activities, and vibrant communities.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Pulaski County, Kentucky.

  • Pulaski County, KY was formed on December 10, 1798.
  • In 1800, the county's first courthouse was built in a small town called Mill Springs.
  • The county saw significant growth in the mid-1800s with the arrival of the railroad in 1869.
  • In 1927, the Wolf Creek Dam was completed, creating Lake Cumberland and becoming a major attraction for tourism in the area.
  • During the 20th century, Pulaski County experienced several devastating floods, including the catastrophic flooding caused by the remnants of Hurricanes Harvey and Irma in 2017.
  • Pulaski County remains an important agricultural and manufacturing center in Kentucky.