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Washington County

county

Washington County, located in the heart of Kentucky, holds the distinction of being the first county established by the Commonwealth in 1792. With a population of approximately 12,027 residents as of the 2020 Census, the county seat is located in Springfield. The county is named in honor of George Washington, the first President of the United States. Agriculture, manufacturing, and small-scale industry drive the economy of Washington County. While specific details on major employers are limited in the provided context, the county supports a mix of manufacturing, healthcare, and educational services. The median household income was $59,762 in 2023. Washington County is historically significant as the home of the family of Abraham Lincoln's mother, Nancy Hanks. The Washington County Courthouse, completed in 1816, is the oldest courthouse still in use in Kentucky. The county transitioned to "wet" in November 2024, allowing retail alcohol sales.

Washington County, Kentucky

Overview
Classification
County
Country
United States
County
Washington County
Geography
Region
Outer Bluegrass
Elevation
1,020 ft
Total Area
301 sq mi
Land Area
297 sq mi
Water Area
3.9 sq mi
Latitude
37.75
Longitude
-85.17
Notable Features
Rolling hills · Pristine waters
Neighboring Areas
Anderson County · Boyle County · Marion County · Mercer County · Nelson County
Demographics
Population (2020)
12,027
Est. Population (2024)
12,269
Median Age
42.2
Median Income
$59,762
Poverty Rate
12.6%
Owner-Occupied
78.2%
Racial & Ethnic Composition
The racial makeup of the county was 87.8% White (Non-Hispanic), 5.88% Two Races Excluding Other, & Three or More Races (Non-Hispanic), 5.2% Black or African American (Non-Hispanic), 0.389% Asian (Non-Hispanic), and 0.289% White (Hispanic).
Economy
Unemployment Rate
3%
Economic Profile
Agriculture · Manufacturing · Small-scale industry
Employment Sectors
Manufacturing · Health Care & Social Assistance · Educational Services
Recreation
Outdoor Access
Yes
Major Recreation Areas
Lincoln Homestead State Park
History
Founded
1792
Named After
George Washington
Historical Significance
Washington County holds historical significance as the first county formed in Kentucky and for its connection to the family of President Abraham Lincoln.
Key Events
County established as first in Kentucky · Courthouse completed in 1816 · Home to Abraham Lincoln's maternal family