Washington's Land. Filson's 1784 map of "Kentucke" showed "abundance of iron ore" here. General A. Spotswood visited area in 1797 and reported to George Washington, who purchased tract of 5,000 acres, Nov., 1798. His death, 1799, came before he could visit or develop the land. Installed August 20, 1964. For more information, see ExploreKYHistory: Washington's Land