The development of Boone County began with land. There was bounty land awarded to veterans of the French and Indian War and many of these soldiers went on to fight in the Revolutionary War. Afterwards, over 300 soldiers either lived or purchased land here. They came from most of the original colonies, though Virginia is the most heavily represented. The recognized patriots include African American soldiers and women who were at the siege at Bryan Station. Additionally, some of the pioneer veterans were recent immigrants, hailing from Scotland, Ireland, Germany and England.
Groups of these pioneers settled together and communities developed first along the river, then spread inland. The work of governing was taken up by several of the veterans. Roads were laid out and a county seat was chosen. Bullittsburg Baptist Church, founded in 1794 spawned new churches throughout the county. Farmland was cleared and cultivated. Taverns sprung up on the busiest routes and travel brought commerce. Boone County was growing.
One hundred and fifteen of the known patriots who came to Boone County put down roots and lived out their days here. Many of their gravesites are known, some are still being discovered. These veterans, their families and the enslaved people that were brought here all contributed to building our communities and our culture in some way. Even 250 years removed from this time, there are still descendants of many of these pioneers who lived through the Revolutionary War. Their diverse traditions, skills and talents that pass down through the generations continue to inform our communities.
Explore History Further
Aside from battles and Founding Fathers, what must it have been like to live during this time? What did they eat and drink? What did they do for fun? Through the stories, artifacts and records preserved in our Archive and History Center, we can catch glimpses of what life was like for the people who settled Boone County.
In addition, Revolutionary Reads’ upcoming events celebrating America’s 250th anniversary, provide opportunities to step back in time and imagine what it might have been like to live here more than two centuries ago. History may be in the past, but the stories of those who came before us are still very much a part of Boone County today.
