West Liberty, Kentucky, is situated along the banks of the Licking River. In 1816, an early settlement called Wells Mills was located at the site of what is now the town. The settlement was incorporated in 1823 when Morgan County was founded and thus became the county seat. Read on to discover West Liberty’s past at these historic places in and around the town.
Morgan County Courthouse
The Morgan County Courthouse was built in West Liberty in 1907. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the courthouse features octagonal corner towers and was built of large precast concrete blocks. The current courthouse is actually the county’s fourth. The first courthouse was likely built of logs; the second was a two-story brick building that was destroyed in a fire in 1862. The third building was made of brick and served as the courthouse until the current building was constructed in 1907.
Morgan County Courthouse is located at 261 Court Street.
West Liberty Civil War Marker
West Liberty is the site of three Civil War skirmishes. The first important engagement took place on October 23, 1861, when Union Brig. General William Nelson led forces and surprised the Confederates led by Captain Andrew J. May. During this period, civilian secessionists were captured while Unionists that were jailed were released. General Nelson captured Prestonburg on November 4, 1861. Additional skirmishes took place on September 26, 1862, and October 12, 1863. Sadly, much of the town was burned down during the war.
There is a historical marker at the site of the first skirmish which shows the map and gives information on the events that took place. The historical marker is located on Main Street.
Magoffin County Pioneer Village and Museum
Learn about the area and how life once was at Magoffin County Pioneer Village and Museum in Salyersville, Kentucky, about 20 miles southeast of West Liberty. The living history village features a collection of reconstructed log buildings from eastern Kentucky that you can tour to gain a better understanding of their architecture, methods, and lifestyle of the people. Maintained by the Magoffin County Historical Society, the site also includes a Library and Archives Center where you can browse the large collection of historical information and genealogical materials.
Magoffin County Pioneer Village and Museum is located at 191 S. Church Street in Salyersville.
The Morgan County Public Library
Delve into the town’s history and learn about the genealogy of the community at the Morgan County Public Library. The library’s genealogy room is home to large amounts of information about the town’s past and current residents. Inside, you’ll find everything from birth, marriage, and death certificates to obituary and cemetery records. Additionally, you’ll find digital copies of the Licking Valley Courier, which was an early 20th-century local paper. Aside from the history museum on site, the library is an important part of preserving the town’s history and culture.
Morgan County Public Library is located at 151 University Drive.
Whether you’re a history buff or just enjoy learning more about your town’s pasty, these historic places are full of interesting information about the past.
Image via Flickr by LandBetweentheLakesKYTN
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