Jeff Moore (pioneer) facts for kids

Jeff Moore (born March 22, 1780 – died September 22, 1835) was an American pioneer. He is famous for founding the town of Russell, Kentucky. Even though he explored new lands a bit later than some pioneers in the Ohio River Valley, his life story is very memorable.

Early Life and Adventures

Jeff Moore was born on March 22, 1780. We don't know much about his childhood. People think he grew up on a farm in central Pennsylvania. Moore never learned to read or write. He often heard exciting stories about the lands far to the west.

In the late 1790s, he bought a special type of gun called a Kentucky Long Rifle. He then left home to find his own "adventures" in the western territories.

Founding the Town of Russell

In early 1823, Jeff Moore was traveling through an area that is now the town of Russell. He noticed the unique hills there. Moore thought these hills would be a great place to build a town. He believed a town built on these hills could be easily protected from potential dangers in the wilderness.

Over the next few months, Moore built a large cabin. He placed it on the highest hill in the area. He announced that this spot would be the center of his new town. He named the town Russell. He chose this name to honor a man he had once had a disagreement with.

After setting up his new home, Moore went back East. He gathered his family members and convinced others to join him. He told them many exciting stories about his new community.

Moore returned to his new town in the late spring of 1824. He brought a group of nearly seventy settlers with him. These settlers worked very hard. They helped build Russell into the busy community it is today. Jeff Moore lived in Russell for the rest of his life. He became an important leader in the town he helped create.

Later Years and Passing

Jeff Moore was a respected leader in Russell. He helped the town grow and thrive. He passed away on September 22, 1835.