Kentucky Historical Marker #0169
Jackson Purchase. 8,500 sq. mi. area, former tribal lands of Chickasaw Indians. U.S. paid $300,000 for tract in 1818 after negotiations by Gen. Andrew Jackson and Gov. Isaac Shelby. Bordered by Tenn., Ohio and Miss. Rivers. Now comprises Ky.'s 8 and Tenn.'s 20 westernmost counties. Seven identical markers were dedicated at entrances to the Jackson Purchase region on U.S. roadways in 1962. For more information, see ExploreKYHistory: Jackson Purchase
State Line Rd. [KY 166] & Highland Dr., Fulton, US 45 Bypass, Fulton Co.; Paducah, US 60, W. end of Tenn. River Bridge, McCracken Co.; Kentucky Lake, US 68, Marshall Co., Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #0575
Gen. George Rogers Clark. Gen. George Rogers Clark visited this spot, 1778. Gen. Ulysses S. Grant landed here Sept. 6, 1861 to occupy Paducah for Federal Union. Capt. Jack B. Sleeth laid first successful submarine cable, 1847. It reached from foot of Campbell St. to Illinois shore. Presented 1963 by Woodmen of the World.
Riverfront, Broadway & Ky. Ave., Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #0793
Chief Paduke. Chief of sub-tribe of Chickasaw Indians, who lived and hunted in this area until Jackson Purchase, 1818. Land here then owned by Gen. William Clark, who founded Paducah; named it in honor of the friendly chief. Statue sculptured by Lorado Taft, 1909, who combined features of various Indian tribes in its execution. Marker sponsored by Junior Chamber of Commerce.
19th & Jefferson St., Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #0828
Fort Anderson. Union fortification built, 1861, by Gen. Charles F. Smith. Manned by 5,000 troops. Jump-off for Grant's Miss. Valley Campaign. Fort was attacked March 25, 1864 by CSA Gen. Nathan B. Forrest's forces. Col. Albert P. Thompson, CSA, of Paducah killed. CSA burned riverfront warehouses. Next day USA troops under Col. S. G. Hicks burned homes in range of the fort. Presented by Paducah Sun-Democrat.
Park, end of 4th St., Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #0839
Old Judge Priest. Here for six years presided William Sutton Bishop, the famed Judge Priest of Irvin S. Cobb's stories. Judge Bishop, 1839-1902, was First District Circuit Court Judge from 1891 to 1897. Served in 7th Ky. Conf. Inf. "This was a man," Paducah Bar Assn. Presented by Southern Bell Telephone Company.
Paducah, Courthouse lawn, Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #0865
Original Boundary. When Gen. William Clark platted town of Paducah in 1827, and when it was incorporated by Legislature, 1830, this was its west boundary. The 12 blocks in the plat were bordered by Oak St. (now Fourth), Clark St. on the south, Jefferson St. on the north and the river on the east. Original name of town, Pekin, changed by Clark to honor legendary Indian Chief Paduke. Presented by Peoples First National Bank & Trust Co.
4th & Broadway, Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #0866
Gen. Lloyd Tilghman. Born Md., 1816. Graduated West Point, 1836. Built railways in South. In Mexican War, 1846-48. Resided Paducah, 1852-61. Built first R.R. here. Joined Confed. Army, July, 1861. Captured at Ft. Henry, Feb., 1862. Exchanged six months later. Formed new command at Jackson, Miss. Killed, May, 1863, Champion's Hill, near Vicksburg. Communication Workers Local 3315, Sponsors.
Tilghman High School, Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #0868
First Baptist Church. Organized as mission, New Bethel Church 1839; constituted as church Nov. 14, 1840. First met courthouse at 2nd and Kentucky; lst building, 300 block Broadway; 2nd and 3rd buildings at 5th and Jefferson. Second building seized by Union army, 1861, for use as hospital during Civil War. Present, 4th, building dedicated May 9, 1965. Presented by Church.
2980 Broadway, Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #0899
First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). Organized, 1849, affiliated with Campbell-Stone Movement in plea for Christian Unity. Located at Seventh and Jefferson, 1895-1965. Tower Bell, cast in 1868, used on area river packets sixty years. Murrell Blvd. congregation merged following 1937 flood. A part of largest and oldest religious body indigenous to the United States. Presented by Church.
Blandville Rd., Paducah, US 62, Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #0962
Irvin S. Cobb. Native of Paducah, famed wit and humorist; newspaper reporter, war correspondent and feature writer; author of books, short stories, movie scripts and plays. Started career with local paper. Moved to New York, 1904; to Hollywood, 1934. Beloved, especially for his high tribute to Kentucky's proud folk in his writing and speeches. Sponsored by Paducah Retail Merchants Association.
Oak Grove Cemetery, Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #0970
Wilmington. Site of first McCracken County seat half mile south. Established in 1827, three years after county was formed. Town site covered 102 acres, on which there were only eight buildings. First court held home of Isaac Lovelace; courthouse completed, 1830. Floods caused the removal of county seat to Paducah in 1832. The county records had to be moved to Paducah in a skiff.
KY 358 between Paducah & Atomic Energy Plant, Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #0977
Marine Ways. 400 feet south is Paducah's oldest continuous industry. Incorporated by act of the legislature Jan. 24, 1854. First ways, completed March that year in eight sections, were capable of holding boats 350 feet in length. During the more than century that the company has been operating, Paducah has been one of the important boat-and-barge building and repair centers. Presented by Marine Ways.
lst & Ky. Sts., Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #1061
First Presbyterian Church. Organized October 29, 1842, at home of Judge James Campbell on Broadway, with eight charter members. Reverend A. W. Campbell served as first pastor. Met in homes and courthouse until 1848, when church was built near corner of Third and Kentucky. Moved to this location, 1888. Dedication of present building, Dec. 3, 1933. Presented by James Rhodes.
7th & Jefferson, Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #1035
Church of Christ. Organized in Paducah in 1906 from a six-week tent meeting. Oldest of Churches of Christ in area. Until one-room structure on Goebel Ave. was built in Aug., 1906, meetings held under tree. Second location, 19th and Broadway, dedicated 1924 and present building Aug., 1959. "Serving God and man in restoring New Testament Christianity." Presented by Church.
2855 Broadway, Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #1036
$5 Bought Paducah. In 1827, Gen. Wm. Clark purchased 37,000 acres of land, including the site on which Paducah now stands, for $5. This land, part of a Revolutionary War grant to his brother, George Rogers Clark, was secured from George Woolfolk, of Louisville, who had been named administrator of George Rogers Clark's estate when he died. Marker presented by Hart's Bread, 1967.
2nd & Broadway, Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #1032
Clara Barton's Visit. The organizer of the American Red Cross in 1881, Clara Barton, came to Paducah March 13, 1884, on the steamboat "Josh V. Throop" to help direct relief work during the Ohio River flood. Relief boats traveled from Pittsburgh to Cairo in first flood relief operation of the American Red Cross. In memory of Charles and Anna Sullivan.
2nd & Broadway, Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #1031
Col. Hicks' Hdqrs.. Here stood the headquarters of Colonel Stephen G. Hicks, commander of the USA occupation forces here during Battle of Paducah March 25, 1864. Next day Col. Hicks ordered sixty private homes that had been used by CSA forces as cover near the fort burned to the ground. Most owners filed suits but were never repaid for their homes. Marker presented by William Clark Market House Museum.
Broadway, between 2nd & 3rd Sts., Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #1043
Gen. Lloyd Tilghman. Heroic statue of this Confederate erected in 1909 by his sons and United Daughters of Confederacy. Born in Maryland. Chief engineer, 1855-56, New Orleans and Jackson Railroad, first to enter Paducah. Joined Confederates July 5, 1861. Killed in battle near Vicksburg, Miss., on May 16, 1863. Sculptor was Henry H. Kitson of Boston, Mass. Marker presented by Tilghman Class of 1929.
Lang Park, Fountain Ave., Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #1052
First Log Cabin. 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. See over. 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. Over. Marker by Greater Paducah Chamber of Commerce.
lst & Broadway, East side of flood wall, Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #1065
Historic Riverfront. Here the Tenn. River flows into the Ohio. Owen's Island opposite Kentucky Ave. There in 1779 George Rogers Clark's small army landed to prepare for its defeat of the British in the Illinois country. In 1780 Col. John Donelson landed 30 boats with 30 families that had floated down river from east Tenn. After stopover went up Ohio and Cumberland, founded Nashville. Over. (Reverse) Historic Riverfront - Here Captain Nicholas Roosevelt's New Orleans made port, 1811. First steamer to ply the rivers from Pittsburgh to New Orleans. In 1861 Union troops under Gen. U. S. Grant landed here to occupy Paducah for duration of the war. Clara Barton arrived, 1884, on the Josh V. Throop during American Red Cross' first major flood relief operation. See over. Marker presented by Downtown Paducah Kiwanis Club.
Riverfront near Broadway, Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #1062
Gunsmith Ferd Hummel. Site of a one-story frame store, Hummel's Gunshop. He came here in 1861. Federal soldiers occupying Paducah in Civil War brought their firearms to him for repair. When the Confederates raided the city, March, 1864, they looted his shop, but he had secreted best arms in his home. Hummel, continuing as a gunsmith, was granted a patent on a breech-loading firearm in 1881.
4th St. near Broadway, Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #1058
Temple Israel. An organized Jewish community has existed in Paducah since 1864, when Paducah Chevra Yeshurun Burial Society was chartered. The first Jewish house of worship in Paducah was established in 1871, located on the east side of South Fifth between Clark and Adams. In 1873, the Paducah Jewish congregation became charter member, Union of American Hebrew Congregations. See over. (Reverse) Temple Israel - In 1893 a new structure was built on the southeast corner of Seventh and Broadway and incorporated as Temple Israel. That temple served as home for the congregation until May, 1963 when Temple Israel on southeast corner of Madison and Joe Clifton Drive was dedicated. Temple Israel Cem. is located on Lone Oak Highway. See over. Presented by Temple.
28th & Monroe St, Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #1090
Grace Episcopal. Grace Church was organized in 1848 in the home of Adam Rankin, led by the Rev. N. N. Cowgill of Hickman. The first structure, built of lumber cut in Louisville and floated downstream, was located on riverfront near Market Street. Consecrated on April 21, 1851. During Civil War property was confiscated by U.S. government and church was used as hospital. (Reverse) Grace Episcopal - Cornerstone for present Gothic edifice, one of Paducah's oldest landmarks, was laid on April 26, 1873 under rectorship of the Rev. W. M. Pettis who envisioned a building large enough to serve a growing city. Dedication and first service held June 21, 1874. Restoration of property after ravages of 1937 flood was led by the Rev. Custis Fletcher, rector. Presented by Church.
820 Broadway, Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #1108
The Flood Wall. Paducah's $8,000,000 flood wall was built by the U.S. Corps of Engineers, is twelve miles long and protects the city to a height three feet above the 1937 flood level. The Flood of 1937 could not recur again in Paducah because of the flood wall, TVA's dams, and other upstream reservoirs. In all, flood control has cost TVA almost $200,000,000. Over. (Reverse) The 1937 Flood - The Ohio Valley Flood of 1937 was the greatest natural disaster in the history of the U.S. and drove over one million citizens from their homes. When the Ohio River reached its crest in Paducah on Feb. 2, 1937, the water stood at 60.8 feet. Over 90 per cent of the city was inundated, 27,000 people were evacuated, and damage exceeded $22,000,000. Over.
1st & Broadway next to Flood Wall, Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #1111
Paducah's Indian Name. Paducah, only major Kentucky city with an Indian name, was named in honor of legendary Indian Chief Paduke by Gen. William Clark when he platted town in 1827. Village was first named Pekin. The Paducahs, Chief Paduke's sub-tribe of Chickasaw Indians, had lived and hunted in this area until land was taken by Jackson Purchase in 1818. Presented in Memory of Lee Anna Rhodes. Presented by James Rhodes.
415 Broadway, Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #1180
Paducah Gaseous Diffusion Plant. A key facility in producing the Uranium 235 needed for fuel in nuclear electrical generating stations and other peaceful uses. The $785,000,000 plant was built in 1951-4 and is operated by the Union Carbide Corp. Nuclear Div. for the Atomic Energy Commission 17 miles west of Paducah off US 60. Can be seen from the access road. Presented by Union Carbide Corp.
Main entrance to Noble Park, Paducah, US 60, Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #1174
First Public Well. July 22, 1833, the City Council authorized John Hynes and David Smith "to let a contract for a public well." In 1835 the old well was ordered cleaned and a new one built with "windlass, chain, and hook for the bucket." The well required constant care, and misuse of the bucket led to adoption of an ordinance July 11, 1834. Over. Marker presented by Paducah Tourist Commission. (Reverse) Public Well Ordinance - "Persons drawing water are in the habit of starting the windlass and letting the bucket run down with great speed by which the bucket is frequently broken. Resolved that if this occurs hereafter, he or she...shall pay 4 dollars fine...[or]...shall receive on the lower back ten stripes well laid." Over. Marker presented by Paducah Tourist Commission.
119 Broadway, Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #1277
Forrest's Bivouac. Gen. Nathan B. Forrest and his CSA troops bivouacked one mile southwest of this spot after Battle of Paducah, March 25, 1864. Forrest moved to Mayfield next day where he paroled his men in order that they could visit their homes in western Kentucky and Tennessee. After three-day furlough troops joined Forrest at Trenton, Tennessee, without loss of a man.
KY 994 (Old Mayfield Rd.) near Jct. of Bogart-Schmidt Rd., Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #1287
Forrest's Headquarters. In a grove of trees at this site, CSA Gen. Nathan B. Forrest had headquarters, Battle of Paducah, on March 25, 1864. USA Fort Anderson attacked, warehouses burned, about 60 homes destroyed by USA after battle. CSA lost 300 men, withdrew that night. This battle climaxed Forrest's memorable raid seeking horses, ammunition, and medicines. Presented by Western Kentucky Gas Company.
1501 Broadway, Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #1431
Westminster United Presbyterian Church. Incorporated March 3, 1851, by an act of Kentucky General Assembly as Cumberland Presbyterian Church. Merged with Presbyterian Church USA, 1906, and became Kentucky Avenue Presbyterian Church. In 1951 the congregation moved to the modified Gothic structure here and changed name to Westminster Presbyterian Church.
28th and Broadway, Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #1469
West Kentucky Industrial College. Ground broken for this college on December 9, 1909, by Dr. Dennis H. Anderson, who had a determination to improve education for Negroes in Kentucky. The cornerstone for first building laid, 1911. Dr. Anderson failed to get bill passed in 1912 legislature to make the school a state institution. It did become state-supported in 1918 and by 1938 had grown to be the third largest Negro junior college in the United States. Presented by the National Alumni Association: Lorenzo Goatley, President, J. D. Marks, Jr., Secy. (Reverse) West Kentucky Industrial College - Before it merged with Ky. State, 1938, this college was served by Presidents D. H. Anderson, 1909-37, and H. C. Russell, 1937-38. A vocational school established in 1938. The following have served as its president: M. H. Griffin, 1938-43; H. C. Russell, 1943-47; M. J. Sleet (Acting Pres.), 1947-48; C. L. Timberlake, 1948-57; and H. C. Mathis since 1957. School has continued to meet the vocational needs of Kentuckians. Presented by the National Alumni Association.
1400 Thompson Ave., Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #1518
Burks Chapel A.M.E. Church. Organized ca. 1871 at home of Dinah Jarrett with 12 members. Named for its founder, Moses Burks. On this site was first structure, a frame church. Brick church built, 1874. In 1911, under the Rev. P. A. Nichols, the present edifice was constructed. Rev. G. H. Matthews became pastor in 1960 and made many worthwhile improvements. Presented by The Gleaners Club, Catherine Means, Pres.
635 Ohio St., Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #1721
Paducah Community College. Founded at 707 Broadway in 1932, this is oldest nondenominational two-year college in Ky. Originally private, Paducah Jr. College was a municipal institution, 1936-1968. In 1949-1953 college became focal point of NAACP'S successful efforts to integrate higher education. Since 1968, school has been part of Community College System of the University of Kentucky.
In front of College, Paducah, US 62, Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #1754
Whitehaven. Main part of house, two-story brick structure, built in 1860s by Edward Anderson. Edward Atkins bought it in 1903 and had noted Paducah architect A. L. Lassiter transform Victorian farmhouse into Classical Revival mansion. He added the Corinthian-columned front portico, and named the house Whitehaven. See over. Presented by McCracken County Civic Beautification Board. (Reverse) Whitehaven - In 1908, Paducah Mayor James P. Smith bought and renamed home "Bide-A-Wee," Scottish adage for "Come Rest A While." Smith family members lived here until 1968. After mansion restored, it opened on June 23, 1983, as Whitehaven Tourist Welcome Center. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1984. See over. Presented by McCracken County Civic Beautification Board.
Paducah, Whitehaven Tourist Welcome Center, US 45 & I-24, Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #1957
8th of August. Traditionally on August 8, African Americans assemble in Paducah to celebrate freedom and pay tribute to their roots. They gather annually for dances, ballgames, and picnics, as a family occasion and in a spirit of community remembrance. In some years people have come from as far away as St. Louis, Memphis, and Chicago. Presented by Paducah-McCracken Co. Tourist Comm.
Community Center, 505 S. 8th St., Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #2360
Eagle Rest Plantation. Settled by Scott family ca. 1845. Developed from family farmstead to highly diversified & productive cattle, jack stock and mule ranch. In 1998, recognized by National Cattleman’s Beef Assoc. as one of the oldest cattle ranches in U.S. under continuous family ownership. Oldest registered cattle brand in Ballard Co. & sixth oldest in Ky. (Reverse) Designated a Kentucky Landmark and Kentucky Sesquicentennial Farm. Since 1978, it has been home of Judge Jimmy Don Robinson & the late Dr. Charlene Robinson, renowned stock woman & general practitioner. They made efforts to acquire majority of the original land tracts that had been divided among heirs & revitalize the farm.
7665 Paducah Rd., Kevil, Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #2404
Woodland School. Former site of a Rosenwald School for African Americans in Massac, New Hope and Hills Chapel. In this one-room wooden structure, one teacher taught 25-30 students from grades 1-8. Many of the students were children and grandchildren of former slaves. Woodland School opened in the 1920s and closed in 1963, due to the integration of Kentucky schools. (Reverse) Rosenwald Schools- From 1912-1932, Julius Rosenwald, philanthropist and CEO of Sears, Roebuck, & Co., collaborated with Booker T. Washington, preeminent African American educator, to build 5357 new one-room schools to serve African Americans across the south and southwest. Their goal was to improve the quality of education for children in rural areas.
5740 Hocker Rd., Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #1027
Second Courthouse. First courthouse at Wilmington, 1824-32. Second courthouse, a two-story brick structure, 36 feet square, built near here at a cost of $3,049, on land given by Gen. William Clark, founder of Paducah. Courthouse also provided meeting place for various early churches. Replaced after 25 years by third courthouse at 6th and Washington. Marker presented by Harry Harris.
2nd & Ky., Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #0916
Paducah, Kentucky. McCracken county seat, founded by Gen. William Clark of Lewis and Clark Expedition at confluence of Ohio and Tennessee Rivers. Named for legendary Indian Chief Paduke. Home of Vice Pres. Alben W. Barkley and birthplace of Irvin S. Cobb. First occupied in Civil War by Gen. U. S. Grant. Became supply base of his Miss. River campaign. Great Atomic Energy plant nearby. (Reverse) McCracken County - Formed, 1824, from Hickman County. Named for Capt. Virgil McCracken of Woodford County, Ky., who was killed in Battle of River Raisin near Detroit during War of 1812. Area 237 square miles. Ohio and Tennessee Rivers brought industry dependent on river transportation. First county seat at Wilmington, 1825, and moved to Paducah, 1832. Government is County Commission.
North 8th & Julia Sts., Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #0840
Paducah, Kentucky. McCracken county seat, founded by Gen. William Clark, of Lewis and Clark Expedition, at confluence of Ohio and Tennessee rivers. Named for legendary Indian Chief Paduke. Home of Vice Pres. Alben Barkley and birthplace of Irvin S. Cobb. First occupied in Civil War by General U. S. Grant. Became supply base of his Miss. River campaign. Great Atomic Energy Plant nearby. (Reverse) McCracken County - Formed, 1824, from Hickman County. Named for Captain Virgil McCracken of Woodford County, Ky., who was killed in Battle of River Raisin near Detroit during War of 1812. Area 237 square miles. Ohio and Tennessee rivers brought industry dependent on river transportation. First county seat at Wilmington, 1825, and moved to Paducah, 1832. Government is County Commission. Presented by Citizens Bank & Trust Company.
Paducah Community College Campus, US 62-W, Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #0968
Paducah Pictorial. Paducah's colorful history from the time of the Chickasaw Indians through the age of steamboats and steam locomotives is depicted on a mural in Post Office building. History and legend of our city, painted by local artists, was presented to the United States by Paducah citizens group. Accepted officially on Oct. 14, 1961. Marker presented by Paducah Moose Lodge No. 285.
Post Office grounds, 5th & Broadway, Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #0924
Grant's Proclamation. On this spot, September 6, 1861, Gen. Ulysses S. Grant read proclamation to citizens of Paducah announcing that the Union Army was taking possession of town "to defend you" against Confederate attack. The "enemy" had taken "possession of and planted his guns" at Columbus and Hickman on the Mississippi. Union troops moved in and the U.S. occupied city for duration of war.
Broadway at Riverfront, Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #1029
Broadway Methodist. Paducah's oldest institution. Founded 1832. First edifice erected 1842 on northwest corner Broadway at 4th. Relocated 1875 on southeast corner Broadway at 7th. Moved to present site 1896. Destroyed by fire 1929; rebuilt 1930. Judge Wm. Sutton Bishop, the "Old Judge Priest" of Irvin Cobb's stories, and Vice-Pres. Alben W. Barkley held membership here. Presented by Louis Igert.
Broadway at 7th, Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #1161
Ride Round the Rivers. This unique pleasure-boat tour is an eighty-mile loop from Paducah up the Tennessee, through Kentucky Lock, up Kentucky Lake, through the Land-Between-The-Lakes Canal, down Barkley Lake, through Barkley Lock, down the Cumberland to Smithland, and down the Ohio back to Paducah. West Kentucky has greatest concentration of major navigable rivers in world. Over. (Reverse) Paducah Harbor - The deep protected water between Owens Island opposite and the Kentucky shore has been a major base for commercial navigation throughout Paducah's history. Every type of barge and boat used in the Mississippi Valley has been built, repaired, manned, and supplied here. It was a famous ice-free winter harbor for steamboats from the northern rivers. Presented by Crounse Corp.
Riverfront near Flood Wall & Ky. Ave., Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #1146
Unity Church-The United Church of Christ. Organized August, 1874 as "German Evangelical Unity Church" with the Rev. Daniel Eschenbrenner, first pastor. German services held in "Old School House Church" on So. 3rd St. New church at 423 So. 5th St. dedicated August, 1894 and renamed Unity Evangelical Church. Services in English begun in 1905. Located here in June, 1961. Over. (Reverse) Unity Church-The United Church of Christ - Evangelical and Reformed Churches of German origin united in 1934. Both have heritage dating to the Reformation in 1517. Merger with Congregational-Christian, English origin, 1957. This merger first in our nation of denominations of different governing styles and of national backgrounds. See over. Presented by Church.
4600 Buckner Ln., Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #1214
Paducah, Kentucky. Located at the confluence of Ohio and Tennessee Rivers. Named for legendary Indian Chief Paduke. Settled in 1821, it was platted in 1827 by General William Clark, incorporated in 1830, and made McCracken county seat in 1832. During Civil War, Confederates seized Hickman and Columbus. Gen. U. S. Grant occupied Paducah, 1861, keeping Kentucky in the Union. Nathan Bedford Forrest raided here, March 25, 1864, in action called Battle of Paducah. Home of Alben Barkley, Vice President, 1949-53, and birthplace of Irvin S. Cobb, world-famous author. From village to town in 1856, to second-class city by 1902, Paducah grew as market, steamboat port, and railroad hub. In the early 1950s Paducah entered the atomic age when the $785,000,000 gaseous diffusion plant was built. Over. Presented by Tilghman Class of 1928. (Reverse) Paducah's City Hall - One of the nation's most attractive, a gleaming symbol of pride and progress, designed by world-famous Edward Durell Stone and Associates of New York City; associate architect Lee Potter Smith. The building, two-story and basement, rises from a 216-foot-square podium encircled by a moat, has over 60,000 square feet of floor space, and cost over $1,500,000. Highlight of the interior is the pyramidal lantern enclosing a two-story-high, 60-foot-square atrium, rising above the centrally located fountain. Ground was broken on June 20, 1963, while Robert Cherry was Mayor. Dedication ceremonies were held on February 28, 1965, during Mayor Tom Wilson's administration, marking the beginning of a renaissance for downtown Paducah. See over. Presented by Tilghman Class of 1928.
City Hall grounds, Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #1698
Grave of John T. Scopes. Here is buried the man who, at age 24, taught Darwin's theory of evolution to a Dayton, Tennessee, biology class. The Paducah native and University of Kentucky graduate violated a Tennessee law forbidding the teaching of evolution. This test case, tried in Dayton, gained international attention. Popular play, Inherit the Wind, is based on the famous Scopes trial. Over. (Reverse) Scopes "Monkey Trial" - The July 1925 trial of John T. Scopes had at issue academic freedom, separation of church and state, and reconciling of science and religion. Scopes' defender was Clarence Darrow; his prosecutor, William Jennings Bryan. Scopes was convicted and fined $100. Later worked as geologist in S. America and La. Law he violated was repealed in 1967. Scopes died, 1970. Over.
In front of Oak Grove Cem., Park Ave., Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #1969
Congressmen Representing First District Which Included Jackson Purchase, 1819-1995. In 1792, Kentucky separated from Virginia and became fifteenth state in the Union. It was not until 1818 that Indian lands west of Tennessee River were bought from the Chickasaws and named the Jackson Purchase. Name Alney McLean Anthony New Robert P. Henry John F. Henry Chittenden Lyon Linn Boyd John L. Murray Linn Boyd Party Independent Dem.-Rep. Dem.-Rep. Dem.-Rep. Democrat Democrat Democrat Democrat Years 1819-1821 1821-1823 1823-1826 1826-1827 1827-1835 1835-1837 1837-1839 1839-1855 Presented by Paducah-McCracken County Convention and Visitors Bureau. (Reverse) Congressmen Representing First District Which Included Jackson Purchase, 1819-1995 Name Henry C. Burnett Samuel L. Casey Lucian Anderson Lawrence Trimble Edward Crossland Andrew R. Boone Oscar Turner William J. Stone John K. Hendrick Charles K. Wheeler Ollie M. James Alben W. Barkley William V. Gregory Noble J. Gregory Frank Stubblefield Carroll Hubbard Tom Barlow Ed Whitfield Party Democrat Republican Unionist Democrat Democrat Democrat Democrat Democrat Democrat Democrat Democrat Democrat Demorcat Democrat Democrat Democrat Democrat Republican Years 1855-1861 1862-1863 1863-1865 1865-1871 1871-1875 1875-1879 1879-1885 1885-1895 1895-1897 1897-1903 1903-1913 1913-1927 1927-1936 1937-1959 1959-1974 1975-1993 1993-1995 1995 Presented by Paducah-McCracken County Convention and Visitors Bureau.
2350 Jefferson St., Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #2361
8th U.S. Colored Heavy Artillery. During the Civil War, Paducah was the first city in Ky. where an African American regiment, the 8th U.S. Colored Heavy Artillery, was officially organized & credited to the state. Parts of other black regiments also recruited here. Slaves who joined earned their freedom. Paducah also the site of Ft. Anderson, an earthen fort built by Union soldiers. (Reverse) On March 25, 1864, Confederate troops attacked Ft. Anderson. The fort’s left flank was located near here, and the 8th U.S. Colored Heavy Artillery helped repulse the assault. This unit and other African American regiments recruited in Ky. and across the nation helped win the war for the Union.
Paducah-McCracken Co. Convention Center, Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #2495
Dr. William Stuart Nelson, 1895-1977. Lincoln Grad Had Global Footprints- Dr. Nelson was born in Paris, Ky. and graduated from Lincoln High School in Paducah. During World War I he served in combat as a 1st lieutenant. Returning to his studies, he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Howard University in 1920 and a divinity degree from Yale in 1924. Over. (Reverse) A professor of religion at Howard, Nelson studied at the Sorbonne in France in 1925 and was the first black president of Dillard and Shaw universities. Returning to Howard, he served as dean & vice president. He marched with Gandhi and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and wrote several books and papers on non- violent resistance. This park was named for him in the 1940s.
Stuart Nelson Park (175 Stuart Nelson Park Rd.), Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #1134
Historic Railroad. The Illinois Central is successor to Paducah's original railroad, the New Orleans and Ohio, which on July 4, 1854, ran its first train. The most prominent railroad landmark in Paducah is company's large shops, on a 110-acre site, begun in 1925, finished two years later. Since then Paducah Shop has been principal Illinois Central locomotive facility. See over. (Reverse) Illinois Central - Charles H. Markham was president of the railroad when he dedicated the new shop in 1927. His bust is on the shop grounds. The Illinois Central serves Paducah from all points of compass, including the great coal fields to the east. Its main north-south freight line, the Edgewood Cutoff, crosses the Ohio River over Metropolis Bridge a few miles downstream. See over. Presented by Illinois Central R.R.
1500 Ky. Ave., Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #0964
Mexican War, 1846-48. From this point a company of 90 Paducahans-3,500 population-formed by Lt. Harry Easton, left to take part in the Mexican War. The men lodged at old Fisher Hotel nearby during time of recruiting. Later they joined volunteers from other counties in the Jackson Purchase. Kentuckians led in turning tide, battle of Buena Vista. Over. Sponsored by Paducah Colonial Baking Co. (Reverse) Liberty of Texas, 1836 - From here 18 "Paducah Volunteers" led by Captain Amon B. King embarked for Texas in 1835 in response to Sam Houston's appeal for aid in fight for freedom from Mexico. Two weeks after the Alamo, in battle at Refugio, Urrea's Mexican troops captured and executed Capt. King and his men. Many other Americans suffered same atrocities. See over. Sponsored by Paducah Colonial Baking Co.
Broadway at Riverfront, Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #0918
Paducah, Kentucky. McCracken county seat, founded by Gen. William Clark of Lewis and Clark Expedition at confluence of Ohio and Tennessee Rivers. Named for legendary Indian Chief Paduke. Home of Vice Pres. Alben Barkley and birthplace of Irvin S. Cobb. First occupied in Civil War by Gen. U. S. Grant. Became supply base of his Miss. River campaign. Great Atomic Energy plant nearby. (Reverse) McCracken County - Formed, 1824, from Hickman County. Named for Captain Virgil McCracken of Woodford County, Ky., who was killed in Battle of River Raisin near Detroit during War of 1812. Area 237 square miles. Ohio and Tennessee Rivers brought industry dependent on river transportation. First county seat at Wilmington, 1825, and moved to Paducah, 1832. Government is County Commission. Anonymous sponsor.
3100 South Beltline Highway, Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #0680
Angles. Home of Alben W. Barkley, 1937-56. A good example of Greek Revival architecture. Built in 1868 by Colonel Quintus Quincy Quigley. Location on sharp angles of three tracts of land source of its name. In early married life Barkley and his wife dreamed of owning it. Dream realized after 30 years. Beloved home for 19 years while Senator and Vice President. Over. (Reverse) "The Veep" - Alben W. Barkley, Vice President of United States, 1949-53. Member U.S. Senate, 1927-49 and 1955-56; Senate Democratic leader 13 years: House of Representatives 1913-27. Born in Lowes, Ky., 1877. Death came at Washington and Lee Univ., 1956. Last words of address to students, "I would rather be a servant in the house of the Lord than to sit in the seats of the mighty." Over. Dedicated June 9, 1964. For more information see ExploreKYHistory
Blandville Rd., Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #2269
Fountain Avenue United Methodist Church. Congregation organized in 1892 as a mission. Original church built at 10th & Trimble Sts. In 1908, Fountain Ave. Methodist Episcopal Church, South was erected here at a cost of $35,000; it has been in continual service since. In 1937, floodwaters filled basement. Möller pipe organ installed in 1945. The education wing was added in 1947.
300 Fountain Ave., Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #0795
"Duke of Paducah". Irvin Shrewsburg Cobb, 1876-1944. One of Paducah's famous sons. "A first-class humorist from a conversational gesture to a book wit who made all the world laugh with him." Author of more than sixty books, short story writer, recipient of O'Henry Award, movie actor, lecturer. Chevalier of the Legion of Honor, France, 1918. Paducah Rotary Club, sponsor.
6th & Broadway, Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #2362
Guthrie Building. "All gave some, some gave all"- Established in 1897, it is also known as the Fraternity Building. During WWII, it was home of the Paducah-McCracken County Draft Board. Nearly 5,000 men & women from the Paducah area served in the war. It was designated a Kentucky Landmark in 2002 and is now used as an office building.
517 Broadway, Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #2208
Lewis and Clark in Kentucky- McCracken County. Lewis and Clark, with the nucleus of the Corps of Discovery, stayed in present McCracken Co. in Nov. 1803 while traveling down the Ohio River on their journey to the Pacific. Clark returned in 1827 to establish Paducah. Over. (Reverse) Nov. 11-13, 1803, Lewis and Clark stopped at Ft. Massac, Ill., near present-day Paducah and recruited men, including Indian interpreter George Drouillard. On Nov. 13, they camped in area of Metropolis Lake State Nature Preserve.
215 N. Second St., Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #2137
Ann I. Baker (1873-1931). Born in Kansas, Ann Baker came to Paducah in 1899 to work for her father, Henry Baker, at Ayer-Lord Tie Co. (railroad crossties). She retired from there, 1930. Marine Ways named a boat, A.I. Baker, for her. Organized Paducah Business and Professional Women's Club, 1920. Baker was elected president and served three years in that office. (Reverse) Ann Baker had idea for professional women's club in Paducah. Business Women's Club held first meeting, Sept. 1920, chartered Oct. 1920. Name changed to Paducah Business and Professional Women. Baker also served as first president of Ky. Federation of BPW. She was generous contributor to charitable and welfare institutions.
125 Kentucky Avenue, Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #0517
Forrest's Raid. General N. B. Forrest with Thompson's Ky. and Bell's Tenn. Brigades raided Paducah on March 25, 1864. Union's Fort Anderson held with aid of gunboats. Guards at USA warehouse captured. Part of town burned. Supplies of food taken by withdrawing CSA forces. Boast in Union newspaper prompted Forrest to send Gen. Abe Buford back to capture some overlooked horses. Dedicated in 1962. For more information, see ExploreKYHistory: Forrest's Raid
21st & Old Mayfield Rd., Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #1037
Col. Ed Murray's Home. Site of home of Col. Ed Murray who built the USS Merrimac, 1855. Ship was taken by Confederates at Norfolk, April 20, 1861. Rebuilt as "ironclad," the CSS Virginia. On March 8, 1862, it sank two US ships off Hampton Roads, Va. Next day engaged in famous five-hour battle with USS Monitor. Virginia was burned May 10, 1862, to prevent capture by Union forces.
6th & Ohio Sts., Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #1025
Irvin S. Cobb Said:. "Here in Paducah one encounters, I claim, an agreeable blend of Western kindliness, and Northern enterprises, superimposed upon a Southern background. Here, I claim, more chickens are fried, more hot biscuits are eaten, more corn pone is consumed, and more genuine hospitality is offered than in any town of like size in the commonwealth." (Reverse) Alben W. Barkley Said: "Paducah is a town with a distinct flavor. It was-and is-a good place, an interesting place, in which to live. A great part of its personality is derived from such colorful citizens as Judge Bishop (the living prototype of Cobb's fictional Judge Priest), Irvin Cobb and others." Marker presented by Shiva Artist Colors.
3rd & Broadway, Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #1107
American Red Cross. McCracken County Chapter chartered May 14, 1917. Organized by Mrs. A. R. Meyers, with W. F. Paxton as first chairman. Initial WWI fund drive raised $42,000. During great Ohio Valley Flood of 1937 carried on an amazing evacuation and relief program. World War II fund campaigns raised $164,530. Serving McCracken County for over fifty years. Marker in memory of Mr. and Mrs. D. E. Wilson, Sr. (Reverse) Red Cross Serves McCracken CountyFlood - 1929 - $3,021 Drought - 1929-31 - $12,851 Flood - 1936 - $812 Flood - 1937 - $1,189,141 Tornado - 1938 - $2,061 Flood - 1939 - $751 Fire - 1939 - $979 Flood - 1945 - $865 Flood - 1963 - $4,590 Presented by Tom Wilson
300 Broadway, Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #0963
A Paducah CSA Hero. Col. Albert P. Thompson fell here in Battle of Paducah, March 25, 1864, victim of Union cannonball. He commanded the 3rd Ky. Inf. CSA. The battle climaxed Gen. Nathan B. Forrest's memorable raid seeking medical supplies and munitions. Thompson, a respected lawyer here, joined Confederate cause in 1861. After war reinterred at Murray. Sponsored by Paducah Lions Club.
514 Park, Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #1006
Jackson Purchase. 8,500 square mile area, former tribal lands of Chickasaw Indians. United States paid $300,000 for tract in 1818 after negotiations by General Andrew Jackson and Governor Isaac Shelby. Bordered by Tennessee, Ohio and Mississippi Rivers, now comprises Kentucky's eight and Tennessee's twenty westernmost counties.
300 yds. S. of Irvin Cobb Bridge, Paducah, US 45, Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #2497
Boy Scout Troop 1. The Boy Scouts of America was incorporated on February 8, 1910. During that first year, Reverend Clinton S. Quin, Rector of Grace Episcopal Church, organized Troop 1 in Paducah. By 2016, Grace Episcopal Church had continuously chartered Troop 1 for more than a century, providing meeting facilities and volunteer leadership. Over. (Reverse) Documented as the seventh-oldest troop in the United States, Troop 1 is a member of the Lincoln Heritage Council, one of the oldest local councils serving both urban & rural areas in the nation. Troop 1 works to promote the principles written in the Scout Oath and Scout Law which foster spirit, instill service, and develop leadership skills.
821 Kentucky Ave., Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #2405
St. John the Evangelist Church and School. Roots of the first Catholic parish in McCracken Co. go back to German immigrants who settled in this area about 1839. Fr. Elisha Durbin said Mass in homes until log church was built in 1849. A frame church was built in 1869 & used until the present church was dedicated in 1933. Extensive renovation was completed in 2006. (Reverse) First school on site was called “Spring School” and was used to prepare children for sacraments, with students being taught by priests and lay persons. Sisters of Charity operated the grade school from 1900-12 and Sisters of Mercy serving from 1913-92. High school curriculum offered from 1938-65. Grade school closed in 2008.
6705 Old Highway 45 S., Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #1452
Dr. Reuben Saunders (1808-1891). Physician credited with discovery that hypodermic use of morphine-atropine halted cholera during epidemic here, 1873. Telegraphed prescription to other plague-stricken areas. Honored by Medical Association in U.S. and Europe. First to advocate fresh air for pneumonia and tuberculosis. Grandfather of Irvin S. Cobb. Presented by John Pearce Campbell IV. (Reverse) Dr. Reuben Saunders (1808-1891) - Outstanding pioneer physician in Western Kentucky for 50 years. Born in Frankfort; died in Paducah. Buried in this cemetery beside his son, Dr. John Bartlett Saunders (1840-1873), also a physician of eminence. John migrated to Honolulu, where he did research on leprosy. He was personal physician to King of Hawaii at the time of his death. Presented by John Pearce Campbell IV.
Entrance to Oak Grove Cem., Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #1175
Confederate Flag of Welcome. With the Confederate occupation of Hickman and Columbus in the late summer of 1861, Paducahans were thrilled and flew a large Confederate flag to welcome Southern Army thought on way. As General Grant's Union forces, backed by gunboats, moved to occupy Paducah on Sept. 6, it was feared flag would be seized. See over. (Reverse) Rescue of Flag - Mrs. Emily Jarrett, whose husband and sons were fighting for the CSA, rushed to save the banner. Under Union gunboat fire, she had a small slave boy climb the pole, retrieve the flag, and drop it to her. Union troops searched her home but failed to find flag's hiding place. Some thirty years later, the faded cloth was laid to rest with its loyal rescuer. Over.
166 Farley Place, Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #1276
Washington Street Missionary Baptist Church. Organized 1855 in log cabin near this site, led by George Brent, member Paducah First Baptist Church. Second was frame building, built by slaves, under leadership of Rev. George W. ("Pappy") Dupee, the first pastor constituted on Feb. 4, 1855. See over. Marker donated by the Brotherhood of 1969. (Reverse) Washington Street Missionary Baptist Church - Colonial brick structure built in 1893 under Rev. Dupee, rebuilt in 1942 after fire, when Rev. D. E. King pastor. Cornerstone this edifice laid June 18, 1967 under pastorate of Rev. H. Joseph Franklin, who envisioned building adequate for worship, Christian education. Dedicated August 1969.
721 Washington St., Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #1377
McCracken County Courthouse. First courthouse on this site finished 1861 and occupied almost immediately by Union Army. Used as a Civil War hospital. Present building erected 1940-43 with help of Works Progress Administration. Total cost of courthouse $344,919. Marker presented by McCracken County Civic Beautification Board. Over. (Reverse) McCracken County Courthouse 1825 - First courthouse built of logs at Wilmington. 1832 - County seat moved to Paducah. Courthouse at Second and Ky. 1861 - First courthouse at this site, then at edge of town. 1943 - Present building occupied. Marker presented by McCracken County Civic Beautification Board. Over
6th St., Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #1421
Paducah Furnace. Built here 1889 by Paducah Iron Co., 70 ft. high with a maximum inner diameter of 14 ft. Rated annual capacity 30,000 tons of iron, using coke fuel. Operations began in 1900, smelting ore from Lyon, Trigg, Livingston counties in Ky., and from Missouri. It was in blast intermittently until 1903, when the furnace ruptured. Razed 1907. See the other side. (Reverse) Iron Made in Kentucky - A major producer since 1791, Ky. ranked 3rd in US in 1830s, 11th in 1965. Charcoal timber, native ore, limestone supplied material for numerous furnaces making pig iron, utensils, munitions in the Hanging Rock, Red River, Between Rivers, Rolling Fork, Green River Regions. Charcoal-furnace era ended in 1880s with depletion of ore and timber and use of modern methods. Over.
3rd & Norton, Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #1112
Barkley's Grave. Alben W. Barkley, "The Veep," was Senate majority leader under President Franklin D. Roosevelt, and Vice-President under President Harry S. Truman. He died on April 30, 1956, while addressing a mock Democratic Convention at Washington and Lee Univ. His last words were: "I would rather be a servant in the house of the Lord than sit in the seats of the mighty." (Reverse) Alben W. Barkley - Alben W. Barkley, Vice President of United States, 1949-53. Member U.S. Senate, 1927-49 and 1955-56; Senate Democratic leader 13 years; House of Representatives 1913-27. Born in Lowes, Ky., 1877. Came to Paducah 1898. Elected to first public office as McCracken County Attorney, 1905. County Judge, 1909. Buried in Mt. Kenton Cemetery, in 1956. Loved and honored by nation. Presented by McCracken County Fiscal Court.
Entrance to Mt. Kenton Cem., Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #1044
Immanuel Baptist. Organized in 1887, as mission of First Baptist Church. Constituted as the Second Baptist Church in January 1894, with twenty-two members. First building located 9th and Ohio. Moved to Murrell Boulevard in February 1922, and changed to present name. Building program started October 1958, on this location. Church dedicated November 6, 1966. Presented by Church.
3465 Buckner Lane, Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #0794
Iron Horse Memorial. This Mikado-type steam locomotive is dedicated to Illinois Central men and women, past and present, and to the importance of the railroad to Paducah's history and commerce. No. 1518 is the last "Iron Horse" owned by the ICRR. Engines built or rebuilt in the Paducah shops many years until 1960, played prominent role in the age of steam. See other side. (Reverse) Iron Horse Memorial - Locomotive donated by Illinois Central Railroad. Maintenance funds provided under leadership of the Western Kentucky AFL-CIO Area Council. No. 1518 was moved from Barkley Park to its present site in 1985 when sponsored by city-county government and community action. The baggage car and caboose added at that time. Marker presented by City of Paducah.
Water St. & Kentucky Ave., Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #1105
Linn Boyd Home-1853. Home of Linn Boyd, 1800-59, stood 500 ft. south. Served in Kentucky Legislature, U.S. Congress, wrote resolution to annex Texas. House Speaker, 1851-55. Proposed for Vice President by Kentucky delegates at Democratic Convention, 1856, which chose Breckinridge of Ky. Elected Lt. Governor, 1859, but died before taking office. Boyd County, Kentucky, is named for him.
1726 Broadway, Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #1072
St. Paul Lutheran Church (Missouri Synod). Organized on Pentecost Sunday, May 24, 1868, by the Rev. B. Sickel. The Congregation was incorporated January 26, 1869. First church building on South Fourth Street dedicated Jan. 7, 1872. Present early English Gothic building was dedicated November 26, 1939. Over. (Reverse) St. Paul Lutheran Church - First church building 416 South Fourth St. abandoned because of 1937 flood damage. Bricks and some lumber of old structure used in erecting present building. The 1500-pound bell, almost 6 ft. in diameter, was removed and placed in the tower of the new church where it continues to ring out its call for all to worship. Over. Presented by Church.
2100 Kentucky Ave., Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #1053
The 1937 Flood. The Ohio Valley Flood of 1937 was the greatest natural disaster in the history of the U.S. and drove over one million citizens from their homes. This location marks the water's western edge in Paducah at the height of the flood, February 2, 1937. Over 90% of the city was inundated, 27,000 people were evacuated and damage exceeded $22,000,000. Over. (Reverse) The 1937 Flood - The 1937 Flood could not happen again in Paducah because of the flood wall, the chain of TVA Dams, and other upstream reservoirs. In all, flood control has cost TVA almost $200,000,000. Paducah's $8,000,000 flood wall was built by the U.S. Corps of Engineers, is twelve miles long and protects the city to a height of three feet above the 1937 flood level. Over. Presented by Gresham Hougland.
29th & Jefferson, Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #1057
Dr. Reuben Saunders. On this site stood the office of Reuben Saunders, M.D., credited with discovering that hypodermic use of morphine-atropine halted cholera during epidemic here in 1873. Telegraphed prescription to other plague-stricken areas. Accepted by Materia Medica, world over. Honored by American Medical Association and in Europe. See other side. Marker presented by the McCracken County Medical Society. (Reverse) Dr. Reuben Saunders - Born in Frankfort, Kentucky, September 6, 1808. Outstanding pioneer physician in Western Kentucky for fifty years. Discovered treatment for cholera. First to advocate fresh air for pneumonia and tuberculosis. First President, West Ky. Medical Association. Grandfather of Irvin S. Cobb. Died in Paducah, Dec. 13, 1891. See other side. Marker presented by McCracken County Medical Society.
Broadway near 3rd, Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #0829
Welcome to Paducah, KY.. Founded by Gen. William Clark, 1827, at confluence of Tennessee, Ohio Rivers. Named for legendary Chickasaw Indian Chief Paduke. County seat McCracken County. Home Vice President Alben W. Barkley; this airport named in his honor. Nearby is Atomic Energy Plant. (See other side). (Reverse) Barkley Field, Paducah, KY. - Birthplace author Irvin S. Cobb; home Linn Boyd, member Congress, Speaker (1851-55), sponsor Texas Annexation Resolution. Town was first captured by Union Gen. Lew Wallace and Gen. Wm. T. Sherman. Railroad and river traffic center. See other side. Presented by Airport Board.
Paducah Airport, Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #0939
Tilghman Home. Gen. Lloyd Tilghman, soldier and rail builder, lived here, 1852-61. Born, Maryland, 1816. Graduated West Point, 1836. In the Mexican War (1846-48). Chief engineer, 1855-56, New Orleans and Jackson Railroad, first to enter Paducah. In Civil War joined Confed. Army, 1861. Killed, Battle of Champion's Hill near Vicksburg, May, 1863. Sponsored by Tilghman High School Class of 1929.
7th & Ky. Sts., Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #0966
Cobb's Birth Site. House in which Paducah's famed humorist, Irvin S. Cobb, was born in 1876 stood here until 1917. The home of Dr. Reuben Saunders, Cobb's maternal grandfather, a pioneer physician who practiced here 1847-1891. For discovery of a cure for cholera in epidemic of 1876, he was decorated by several foreign countries, cited by U.S. Presented by Clyde Boyles.
321 S. 3rd St., Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #1030
Barkley's Law Office. Alben W. Barkley, Congressman, U.S. Senator, and Vice President, began practice of law here, 1901. He had read law for two years in offices of Rep. Charles K. Wheeler and Judge William Sutton Bishop, the "Old Judge Priest" of Irvin Cobb's stories. Barkley supplemented his income by acting as court reporter. Presented by BPO Elks No. 217 Paducah, of which Mr. Barkley was a member.
510 Broadway, Paducah, KY, United States
Kentucky Historical Marker #1106
St. Francis de Sales. St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church is the oldest church in Paducah located on original site. Property purchased May 8, 1848, for $225 by Father Elisha Durbin. First church built 1849 and was enclosed with a fence as livestock roamed at large at the time. First pastor was Rev. William Oberhulsman, 1850-54. Second church built in 1870 by Rev. Ivo Schacht, 1869-71. (Reverse) St. Francis de Sales - Rev. Herman W. Jansen, pastor from 1882-1909, built present church at cost of $30,000. Cornerstone laid June 5, 1899. Rev. Henry Connolly was pastor 1909-1927. Reverend John D. Fallon served 1927-38. Reverend Albert J. Thompson 1938-57. Rev. Charles DeNardi 1957-63. Rev. Robert T. Wilson named pastor 1963. Members of six generations under eighteen pastors have worshipped here. Presented by Henry Puryear.
530 Broadway, Paducah, KY, United States