The Fort

The replica fort was built by The Kentucky Parks System and opened in 1974. Over the years it has changed and nestled into it's surroundings. It was designed to be as close in structure to the fort built by Boone and his men in 1775. The replica fort was designed to be as close in structure to the one built by Daniel Boone and his men in 1775. The present fort has 16 cabins and 4 corner blockhouses according to a sketch by Nathan Boone (Daniel's youngest son). Squire Boone (Daniels brother) had a forge and gun shop in the center of the fort.

For the first few years that settlers were living at the site there were no walls built. In 1778 when Boone escaped and returned from his time as a captive of Shawnee Chief Blackfish; Boone had learned of an impending attack and rushed back to the fort and began the completion of the fort walls. By the Great Siege of 1778 the palisades were completed and everyone was safe within its walls.

The original fort site is near the Kentucky River in the lower park and can be viewed by visitors. Because of continual flooding the replica fort was built on higher ground.