Published: July 03, 2009 04:14 pm      

2009: Year of four historic milestones

Today is the 233rd anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, which will be celebrated with picnics, concerts and fireworks across America.

The cities of Richmond and Berea both have day-long celebrations planned that will conclude with fireworks at dusk.

Today also is the 200th anniversary of Richmond’s incorporation as a city.

Retired Circuit Judge James S. Chenault mentioned the occasion Wednesday when he gave a talk on “Madison County’s Colorful History” to the Richmond Rotary Club.

“You probably haven’t heard a thing about (the city’s bicentennial),” he said.

The town was founded in 1798, but not incorporated as a city until 11 years later.

The Madison County History Society is aware of today’s significance for Richmond, even if no special commemoration is planned.

The organization is planning to commemorate it and three other significant milestones of local history Aug. 22 when it dedicates the “Madison County Heritage Walk of Fame,” said Charles Hay, treasurer of the historical society.

In addition to the bicentennial of Richmond’s incorporation, 2009 also is the bicentennial of Christopher “Kit” Carson’s birth, the 275th anniversary of Daniel Boone’s birth and the centennial of Boone Tavern in Berea.

“Kit Carson was born Dec. 24, 1809, near what is now the intersection of Tates Creek Road and Goggins Lane,” Hay said.

Carson will be one of the first six historical figures recognized by bronze plaques to be embedded in the sidewalk around the Madison County Courthouse.

The others are Daniel Boone, founder of Boonesborough; Monk Estill, the first black resident of Madison County who also is credited with saving settlers’ lives in conflicts with American Indians; John G. Fee, founder of Berea College; James B. McCreary, two-time governor of Kentucky, congressman and U.S. senator; and Laura Clay, campaigner for women’s rights.

Others will be added in later years.

Carson, a U.S. Army scout, served under Gen. John C. Fremont, who was known as “the pathfinder.” He was involved when Fremont’s forces took possession of California in 1846 during the Mexican War.

In the 20th century, numerous Hollywood movies capitalized on Carson’s adventures, extending his fame as a folk hero.

A state historical highway marker that was taken down as Tates Creek Road was widened was recently put back in place, Hay said. A duplicate marker will be installed this fall at Kit Carson Elementary School, also on Tates Creek Road.

The historical society is working with the city of Richmond to establish a roadside park to honor Carson, Hay said.

Daniel Boone’s 275th birthday is being celebrated all year long by Boonesborough State Park, but special events are planned for Oct.17-18.

Boone Tavern Hotel in Berea, which recently underwent an $11 million renovation, is observing its centennial this year. The hotel is serving birthday cake to visitors at 3 p.m. every day, according to Gary McCormack, the general manager.



Bill Robinson can be reached at brobinson@richmondregister.com or at 624-6622.