Old Town

In 1839 John Cuppy laid out 42 lots on his farm between Ohio River and hill; added 50 lots in 1850. Named Vernon but called Cuppy Town. In 1840 John Chapman built the first house. Industry based on rich clay deposits, brick plants and river transportation saw population of 400 in 1850 expand to 1200 in 1870.

Residential and commercial growth, incl. shops, stores, hotel, and churches, led to its claim as first and present county seat.