History

A positive spirit
infuses the local
economy in Danville
and Boyle County—
it’s the business of
moving forward...

Natural Beauty
Traversed by well-known trailblazers, Simon Kenton and Daniel Boone, Central Kentucky's natural beauty, game, and fertile soil drew early settlers. Native tribes fought to preserve their hunting ground known as "Kan-tuck-kee, but as expansion into the area continued, several trails were created. Danville was formed where five "roads" converged, creating the first center of commerce in "the West." In education, government, law, and medicine, Danville has become known as the "City of Firsts." On the original Wilderness Trace, the first stone manor house built in Kentucky served as a stop for travelers. Today, this stately home welcomes visitors as one of the community’s many fine B&B’s. (See the Member Directory to learn which ones are Chamber members.)

Birthplace of Kentucky
The state's constitutional conventions were held in Danville, which became Kentucky's first capitol in 1792. The site is now a state park, Constitution Square, with log cabin replicas and the original building that served as the first U.S. Post Office west of the Alleghenies. Danville also claims the first courthouse, the first college, and the first law school in "the West." Across the street from Constitution Square is the home of Dr. Ephraim McDowell, where the world's first successful abdominal surgery was performed on Christmas Day in 1809. McDowell House and Gardens, now a museum with one the world's largest collections of historic apothecary ware, is a favorite among tourists.

Building on its proud heritage with a spirit of cooperation, Boyle County residents continue to invest energy, intellect, and talent to maintain the area's highly valued quality of life. Based on its excellent health care, its recreational and cultural opportunities, and its self-sustaining economy, Danville has been rated best small town in Kentucky, ranked nationally in two editions of Norman Crampton’s 100 Best Small Towns in America, listed as “one of six great towns” in Where to Retire (Winter '99), and later noted as one of America's successful small towns in Time magazine.

The qualities that were so appealing more than 200 years ago remain. Natural beauty, clean air, fertile earth, and ample, quality water provide a healthy environment. A continuing emphasis on excellence in education and health care, a balanced economy, active lifestyles, and an increasing commitment to creativity and the arts, make Boyle County an ideal place to live and grow.

Danville / Boyle County Chamber of Commerce
304 S. Fourth Street, Danville KY 40422  859-236-2361

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