This microfilm is a copy of the original records located at the Kentucky State Historical Society in Frankfort and microfilmed in 1975. It is an incomplete copy of the set of records for each county but can provide the information for the specific counties and years as denoted in the list.
General Leavenworth’s expedition to the Wichita country faced significant challenges, suffering from sickness among his men and horses, leading to a drastic reduction in their numbers. Upon reaching the Washita River, Colonel Dodge took command of the reorganized force, now diminished to 250 men. Their journey included encounters with Comanche tribes, where they sought to establish peace and facilitate trade. As the expedition progressed, the troops faced further hardships, including loss of supplies and sickness, ultimately culminating in a crucial meeting with the Wichita tribe to discuss treaties and exchanges.
Joshua Cates was an influential and energetic businessman in Christian County, remembered for his eccentricities and originality. A native of South Carolina, he was known for his vigorous land dealings and unique approach to life, often eschewing conventional habits such as formal dining and sleep. Cates was a horse dealer and slave trader, and despite a serious injury from a slave, he continued his ventures with his characteristic vigor. His later years were marked by mental decline, but he left behind a legacy of a large family and a remarkable presence in the community.
Robert P. Henry, born in 1788 in Scott County, Kentucky, was the son of a Revolutionary soldier and a prominent figure in his community. He graduated from Transylvania University and studied law under Henry Clay. Admitted to the bar in 1809, he served as Commonwealth’s Attorney and participated in the War of 1812. Henry was elected to Congress in 1823, advocating for Mississippi River improvements, but died prematurely before completing his second term. He was noted for his legal acumen and political contributions.
John M. Palmer, born in Kentucky in 1817 and later moving to Illinois, became a prominent lawyer and politician. He served as Probate Judge, participated in the Constitutional Convention, and was elected to the State Senate. During the Civil War, he rose to Major-General, commanding the Fourteenth Army Corps. Appointed military governor of Kentucky in 1865, he was respected for his integrity. Elected Governor of Illinois in 1868, his administration was marked by capacity and a focus on states’ rights, earning him both support and criticism.
Hon. Rezin Davidge was a distinguished early lawyer in Christian County, known for his legal expertise, compelling speaking, and integrity. Born in Maryland around 1770, he moved to Kentucky post-statehood and became the first Commonwealth’s Attorney in Hopkinsville. Though appointed as a Judge of the Court of Appeals during a turbulent political period, his tenure was contentious. Davidge later served on the Circuit bench and spent his final years in Hopkinsville. He was married twice, fathering five sons and three daughters.
Judge Ninian Edwards, born in 1775, was a prominent lawyer, jurist, and statesman whose public service spanned nearly forty years across Kentucky and Illinois. After graduating from Dickinson College, he became a successful attorney and served in various political roles including Chief Justice of Kentucky and Governor of the Illinois Territory. Elected to the U.S. Senate upon Illinois’s admission to the Union, Edwards was known for his legal acumen and leadership. He passed away in 1833, leaving a lasting legacy in American history.
William B. Blackburn was among the first lawyers in Hopkinsville, arriving from Woodford County around 1799. He lived with pioneer Bartholomew Wood and practiced law there for a few years, although details of his success remain unknown. Blackburn returned to Woodford County around 1803, where he became a significant lawyer and politician, serving multiple terms in both the House and Senate from 1804 until 1834. He was related to notable figures in Kentucky’s political history and died around 1842.
Judge Benjamin Shackelford served on the Circuit Court for thirty-six years, earning a reputation for integrity and impartiality. His decisions were rarely overturned, reflecting his commitment to justice without corruption. Upon the adoption of a new state constitution, he ran for re-election but was defeated due to divided party votes. Esteemed by the community, his contributions were recognized through resolutions from both the Grand Jury and the Bar. Born in Virginia in 1780, he practiced law in Kentucky before being appointed to the bench in 1815, where he left a lasting legacy before his death in 1858.
Charles S. Morehead, born on July 7, 1802, in Nelson County, Kentucky, was a prominent lawyer, legislator, and Governor. Educated at Transylvania University, he began his legal career in Christian County, quickly earning political acclaim. Morehead served multiple terms in the Legislature and as Attorney General, ultimately becoming Governor in 1855. He advocated for peace during the lead-up to the Civil War but faced imprisonment for his beliefs. After the war, he returned to a diminished estate, passing away on December 23, 1868.
Joseph B. Crockett, born in 1808 in Jessamine County, Kentucky, pursued law after studying under prominent mentors. He became a successful attorney, legislator, and Commonwealth’s Attorney before moving to St. Louis and later California, where he thrived. Crockett was appointed to the Supreme Court, eventually becoming Chief Justice, serving for twelve years until 1880. Notably respected for his integrity and legal acumen, he gained popularity for his kindness and talent, leaving a lasting legacy in both Kentucky and California. He passed away in 1883-84.
James Breathitt, born in Virginia and raised in Kentucky, was the son of William Breathitt, a respected but financially limited citizen. He became a prominent lawyer after studying law and practiced in Hopkinsville, where he was recognized among the leading attorneys of his time. Breathitt served as Commonwealth’s Attorney and was elected to the Legislature, demonstrating notable legal acumen, particularly in criminal law. He had two marriages and fathered one child before his untimely death in 1839, which was a significant loss to his community.
Fidelio C. Sharp emerged as a distinguished lawyer in Hopkinsville’s early legal community, particularly excelling in land law. Originally from Logan County, Sharp had limited formal education yet became a profound legal mind, known for his precise legal documents and distinct speaking style that engaged listeners. His expertise in land title disputes made him a formidable figure; cases he represented often resulted in victory. He married Evalina Johnson and left behind a legacy, including a son residing in Hopkinsville. Sharp passed away years ago.
Abraham Stites, born in Elizabeth, New Jersey, during the Revolutionary War, moved with his family to the Ohio Valley in 1808. He trained as a lawyer and settled in Georgetown, Kentucky, before relocating to Hopkinsville in 1818. Noted for his legal acumen and dedication to education, Stites served as Clerk of the Christian County Court for over thirty years. He was respected for his public spirit and commitment to conciliation over litigation. Stites raised a prominent family, including Judge Henry J. Stites. He died in February 1864 during a skirmish in Hopkinsville.
Charles Biles, born in Warren County, Tennessee, in August 1809, moved to Christian County, Kentucky, before settling in Illinois. In 1853, he emigrated to Washington Territory with his family, being part of one of the first groups to do so. He farmed on Grand Mound Prairie while also serving as a minister. Biles passed away in 1869, leaving behind two sons and two daughters. His sons, David and Charles N., continued their father’s legacy in surveying and public service in the region.
Joseph Mosley, born March 15, 1853, in Kentucky, recalls his experiences as a slave under Tim Mosley, a notorious slave trader. He describes the brutal conditions of being chained with other slaves, overseen by armed guards. After being separated from his family, he faced harsh treatment and scarcity. At age 13, he received his first clothes and shoes on Christmas, symbolizing his newfound freedom, which he didn’t initially understand. The family later settled in Indianapolis, where Mosley lived until paralyzed and reliant on a small pension.
Annie B. Boyd, born August 22, 1851, in Christian County, Kentucky, recounts her life as a slave and her experiences post-emancipation. Sold with her mother to a new owner at the Hopkinsville Courthouse, she describes her harsh treatment by her mistress and nurturing roles during her enslavement. Boyd shares superstitions and signs she believes in, and reflects on her desire for freedom and education. Despite the challenges, she holds onto traditions and beliefs significant to her identity and experiences.
Mary Wooldridge, born a slave in Washington County, Kentucky, recounts her experiences during slavery, including being sold multiple times. She describes her former masters, particularly Mr. Thomas McElroy, as relatively kind. After emancipation, she expresses confusion about freedom and fondly remembers her former mistress. Wooldridge worked various jobs, including as a midwife. She shares traditional birthing practices and her belief in planting by the moon. At around 103 years old, she reflects on her life and views on politics, attributing distinct roles to race in the context of voting.
Cora Torian, interviewed by Mamie Hanberry in Hopkinsville, Kentucky, shares memories of her life as a slave, born to Belle Childress, who was owned by Andrew Owen. Cora recounts superstitions and beliefs, such as dreaming of fish as a sign of money and seeing ghosts. She describes the conditions of her childhood, including good treatment from her masters, while noting the harsh realities faced by other enslaved individuals. Cora’s narrative reflects a blend of cultural traditions and the enduring impact of slavery on personal experiences.
Scott Mitchell, a former slave in his 70s or possibly near 90, recounts his early life in Christian County, Kentucky, under Captain Hester. He remembers the Civil War and the pain of family separations, as Hester traded his mother and sister before ultimately bringing them back. Scott describes his upbringing, his work in coal mines starting at age 20, and his fondness for employer Mr. Davis, who provided for him and ensured a stable work environment until his death.