From Wilderness to Commonwealth 1750 -1792

Book Overview:

“The Bluegrass State came to life … 232 years ago, thanks to the hard work, dedication, determination, and perseverance of some fascinating men – who were supported by fierce, strong women – that should never be forgotten.”

In her debut book, Medina Dean, founder of Kentucky Historic Travels, delves into Kentucky’s road to statehood through historic sites she has visited and by focusing on the influential men and women who “made Kentucky.”

From Dr. Thomas Walker State Historic Site (From Wilderness) to Constitution Square Historic Site (to Commonwealth) and the places in between, Medina shares Kentucky’s history in the same storytelling manner her readers have come to know and love from her history blog.

Come along and explore a deeper history of famous Kentuckians and historic sites such as:

  • General George Rogers Clark – Locust Grove National Historic Landmark,
  • Colonel James Harrod – Old Ft. Harrod State Park,
  • Lieutenant Colonel Daniel Boone – Ft. Boonesborough State Park,

and lesser-known – but equally important – pioneers and Revolutionary War Patriots:

  • Lieutenant Colonel William Whitley – William Whitley House State Historic Site,
  • Brigadier General Simon Kenton – Old Washington Pioneer Village,
  • Colonel John Floyd – Floyd’s Station Spring House, and many more!

Learn about the places that share Kentucky’s early story, where you can walk in the footsteps of the brave, the strong, the fierce, and the determined settlers of Kentucky.

Cover of the book 'From Wilderness to Commonwealth 1750 - 1792' by Medina P. Dean, featuring a landscape scene with trees and water, placed on a table with decorative elements.

Medina’s debut book is available on Amazon and on the shelves at two Kentucky small business locations!

A storefront window display of The Candle Barn Co., featuring a logo with sunflowers and a decorative bicycle with a 'Welcome' sign.
The Candle Barn Co. at 2896 Highway 44 East, Unit B, Shepherdsville, KY 40165
Logo of The Kentucky Bookstore featuring a horse and an open book, with the text 'The Kentucky Bookstore' and 'Lawrenceburg, KY' in a circular design.
The Kentucky Bookstore within Tastefully Delicious at 126 S Main Street, Lawrenceburg, KY 40342

⬇️ From Wilderness to Commonwealth Reviews ⬇️

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Very easy to follow!

I absolutely loved this book! I’m not a great reader, but Medina’s style kept me interested and was very easy to follow. I learned things about Kentucky I didn’t know before. Now I can’t wait for warmer weather so I can get out and visit the locations described in this book! I would definitely recommend this book for anyone who has even the smallest interest in Kentucky history.

~ Jessica, Amazon Review, December 28, 2024

“History Runs Deep in Kentucky

but not everyone tells it like Medina P. Dean does. From Wilderness to Commonwealth: 1750-1792 is a powerful look at how Kentucky rose from raw frontier to proud statehood.

This isn’t just another history book, it’s Kentucky’s soul on paper. Medina traces our early story through the very places you can still visit today. If you love Kentucky’s past, its land, and the grit of the people who built it… you’ll feel right at home in these pages.”

~ The Kentucky Bookstore, Lawrenceburg, KY

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Informative read about Kentucky’s historic sites!

If you’re visiting Kentucky and want to dive a little deeper into its rich history, From Wilderness to Commonwealth is a great choice. I actually picked this one up (x2) to leave in my Kentucky short-term rentals, and I’m so happy it’s now in my guest libraries. I love providing them with a historic look at some of the sites they can visit while in Kentucky. Also great for anyone who’s spent time in Kentucky (or even those of us who are local) and wants to appreciate the history behind the places they visit.

~ Melissa, Amazon Review, October 5, 2024

A close-up view of the book titled 'From Wilderness to Commonwealth 1750 - 1792' by Medina P. Dean, showcasing a serene natural landscape reflecting on water, placed on a wooden table.

Some chapters have been featured on her blog, Kentucky Historic Travels, and other chapters have been newly written for her debut book. Written to bring attention to people and places that may otherwise be forgotten, Medina also hopes her personal stories of her historic travels will motivate others to Get out and see Kentucky, too!

“I love the passion you express when you talk of the historical sites you visited.” ~ Ann, Facebook, October 4, 2024

“This is a beautiful book!” ~ Joyce, Facebook, October 4, 2024

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ You’ll love KY even more…

When an author can entertain me, as well as inform me, I’m all in. I always found textbooks lacked certain details I craved, that I thought were important, and Medina has answered those and many more. Great research, photos, everything I love about Kentucky in a layout I am really enjoying. I splurged on the hardcover; it’s fantastic.

~ K S M, Amazon Review, October 22, 2024

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