Frontier Protection
In the early days of Kentucky County, the frontier was dotted with stations and forts built to protect settlers from Native American attacks. Forts, such as Ft. Boonesborough and Ft. Harrod, were larger fortifications usually built around a spring, allowing multiple families to settle in an area. Stations, like Logan’s Station, were smaller, safe stops used by settlers while on their way to the larger forts.
Logan’s Station
Last year, on our adventure to William Whitley Historic Home, we learned of Logan’s Station. This station or small fort, was settled by Benjamin Logan and John Floyd, after exploration of the area in 1776. The station (originally named St. Asaph) was erected in 1777 to defend themselves, other settlers and their families, and the area. The location was chosen for its easy access to Buffalo Spring located nearby, and its spot on Wilderness Road. All roads, with the exception of Boone’s Trace, that traveled north into Kentucky County from the Cumberland Gap, passed through Logan’s Station. Therefore, many historically famous settlers and their families stopped or even stayed here for a time, including William Whitley and his family.
Historical Importance
Many historically important events also occurred at Logan’s Station.
- In May 1777, the station was attacked by British-allied Native Americans during the Revolutionary War.
- Around September 1778, Logan’s Station became the host to the court martial of Daniel Boone, who was accused of treason. He was later acquitted.
- In October 1779, the Virginia Land Commission opened its first office at Logan’s Station.
- Finally, in March 1781, the Lincoln County (VA) Court was moved to Logan’s Station.
Logan’s Station becomes Stanford
The fort stayed in use until 1790. The settlement had expanded by then, and had become known as Stanford. Unfortunately, nothing of the original fort survived.
Building a Replica
Today, a community group is working on a replica of the original fort. The fort is far from complete, but your can envision what it will look like when finally finished. If you chose to visit, make sure to add something else to the trip, because this stop is a quick one. There are many other things to see in this historic area of Kentucky. On this day we visited William Whitley Historic Home, Logan’s Station, and Isaac Shelby’s Cemetery State Site. (See more on this in my next post). Stanford also has other historic sites in its very quaint downtown area. So, make sure to plan your travels ahead of time. http://www.stanford-lincolncountytourism.com/attractions…
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