Henderson County facts for kids

Henderson County is a name used for several different places in the United States. When you hear "Henderson County," it usually refers to one of five counties, each located in a different state. These counties are named after important people in American history.

What is a County?

A county is a type of local government area. It's like a smaller division within a state. Counties help organize things like schools, roads, and local laws. They are very common in the United States.

Henderson County, Illinois

Henderson County in Illinois was created on January 20, 1841. It was formed from parts of Warren County. The county is named after Richard Henderson, a famous pioneer and land speculator. He was known for his efforts to settle lands in the American West. The county seat, which is the main town where the government offices are, is Oquawka.

Henderson County, Kentucky

Henderson County in Kentucky was established on November 15, 1798. It was named after Richard Henderson as well. This Richard Henderson was a judge and a land speculator who played a big role in the early settlement of Kentucky. The county is located in the western part of Kentucky, along the Ohio River. The city of Henderson is its county seat.

Henderson County, North Carolina

Henderson County in North Carolina was formed on December 20, 1838. It was created from parts of Buncombe County. This county is also named after Richard Henderson, the same judge and land speculator who influenced the settlement of Kentucky. Henderson County is located in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of western North Carolina. Its county seat is Hendersonville.

Henderson County, Tennessee

Henderson County in Tennessee was created on November 7, 1821. It was named in honor of James Henderson. He was a colonel in the Tennessee militia during the War of 1812. The county is located in West Tennessee. The county seat is Lexington.

Henderson County, Texas

Henderson County in Texas was established on April 27, 1846. It was named after James Pinckney Henderson. He was a very important person in Texas history. James Pinckney Henderson was the first governor of the state of Texas. The county is located in East Texas. The county seat is Athens.