Hartford, Kentucky, the county seat of Ohio County, boasts a rich history that dates back to the late 18th century. The area was originally part of a 4,000-acre land grant from Virginia to Gabriel Madison, surveyed in 1782 and settled prior to 1790. Early settlers established a fortified settlement known as Fort Hartford on a bluff overlooking the Rough River. This fortification served as a protective measure against frequent conflicts with Native American tribes during that period.
The name “Hartford” is believed to have originated from a deer crossing, or “hart ford,” on the Rough River near the settlement. In 1799, Hartford was designated as the county seat of the newly formed Ohio County. The town’s post office was established in 1801 under the name Hartford Court House, and the settlement was formally incorporated by the state assembly in 1808.
Throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, Hartford developed into a vibrant community. The Downtown Hartford Historic District, encompassing parts of Main Street and Courthouse Square, features architecture from the late 19th and early 20th centuries and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1988. Today, Hartford continues to honor its historical roots while serving as a welcoming community for residents and visitors alike.