Fort Nelson (Kentucky) facts for kids
Fort Nelson was an important fort built in 1781 near what is now downtown Louisville, Kentucky. It was the second fort built on land along the Ohio River in that area. Soldiers led by George Rogers Clark built Fort Nelson.
The first fort, called Fort-on-Shore, wasn't strong enough to protect the settlers. So, Fort Nelson was built to help defend against attacks from Native American groups and the British during the American Revolutionary War. It was named after Thomas Nelson Jr., who was the governor of Virginia at the time. Back then, Kentucky was part of Virginia.
Building Fort Nelson
Fort Nelson was built between what is now Main Street and the Ohio River. Its main entrance was near Seventh Street. The fort was made to be a strong defense for the growing settlement.
What Was Fort Nelson Used For?
Besides being a military fort, Fort Nelson also served as a courthouse and a jail for a while. It was used by soldiers until another fort, Fort Finney, was built across the river around 1784. Fort Finney was located where Jeffersonville, Indiana, is today.
Fort Nelson Today
Today, you won't find the original Fort Nelson standing. Instead, there is a place called Fort Nelson Park. It's a small, shady park with a stone monument. This monument helps us remember the important history of Fort Nelson and its role in protecting the early settlers of Louisville.
