Gallatin County

Tucked away on the banks of the Ohio River, Gallatin County is a hidden gem that embodies the essence of historic Kentucky regions. Formed in 1798, the county boasted a desirable combination of rolling farmlands and favorable river frontage that was vital for early pioneers as they moved west to settle the frontier. The county's location along river and shipping routes between Cincinnati and Louisville provided both a bustling economy and a rural lifestyle for its residents. The decline in river traffic and the construction of Interstate 71 in the 1960s largely left the county behind and dramatically impacted the local economy. As homage to its pioneering roots, Gallatin County has revitalized its economy with a busy marina, two major employers (Gallatin Steel and Dorman Products), and the spectacular Kentucky Speedway while retaining its rural historical charm.

Melinda Sartwell holds a bachelor's degree in history and master's in public history from Northern Kentucky University and is an associate editor for the award-winning Northern Kentucky Heritage magazine. Rebecca Riesenberg is a life-long resident of Gallatin County and a 2013 graduate of the University of Kentucky. Images of America: Gallatin County is presented through vintage images and postcards provided from private and archived collections.