History

Call up a story about the African American fight for Kentucky during the Civil War on Winchester’s Cell Phone Tour, then visit the site of an earthen fort built by the Union soldiers who defended fort and ferry at Boonesboro. Meet “Kentucky Appalachian Treasure” Homer Ledford—luthier, musician, author and teacher revered for his folk instrument making, including thousands of dulcimers—at the Bluegrass Heritage Museum’s Ledford Workshop exhibit.

Tour the Federal style home named for Mary, Queen of Scots at Holly Rood. The gracious mansion was built in 1813 by James Clark, 13th Governor of Kentucky, an education crusader who worked for the establishment of free public schools for all across the state. Find the final resting place of Cola, the only pet buried in the Winchester Cemetery, on a walking tour that encompasses the story of this 230-year-old community though those who have been memorialized within its grounds.

Weaving his own story of discovery, adventure and wonder throughout the region is Kentucky’s original pioneer, Daniel Boone, who left his imprint on the land, the river and the pages of history in and around Winchester. Follow along on the Daniel Boone Heritage Trail, a Kentucky Scenic Highway.