County Named, 1860. For Thomas Metcalfe, 1780-1855. Born Va. Capt. Ky. Vol. War 1812; Congress 1819-28; Governor 1828-32; Ky. Senate 1834-38; U.S. Senate 1848-49, completing Crittenden's term. "Old Stone Hammer'' laid the foundation, 1797, of Governor's Mansion, now home of Lieutenant Governors. Metcalfe County formed out of parts of Adair, Barren, Cumberland, Green & Monroe.