Garrard County

Garrard County is an administrative division in central Kentucky characterized by gently rolling hills and productive farmland. Lancaster serves as the county seat and functions as the hub for local governance and community life.

The county was established in 1796 and named for James Garrard, Kentucky's second governor who served from 1796 to 1804. Camp Dick Robinson, located here, served as the first Federal military installation south of the Ohio River during the Civil War era.

The area carries the name of James Garrard, an early governor of Kentucky, whose legacy remains woven into local identity and storytelling. Residents and visitors can explore historical sites that reflect this connection to the state's founding era.

Spring and fall offer the most comfortable conditions for exploring the area and visiting outdoor locations. Lancaster, positioned centrally, provides convenient access to local services and serves as an easy reference point for orientation.

This area maintained a prohibition on alcohol sales for more than two centuries until residents voted in November 2023 to end this long-standing restriction. This shift reflects changing attitudes within the community about personal choices and local policy.

Location: Kentucky

Inception: December 17, 1796

Capital city: Lancaster

Elevation above the sea: 266 m

Shares border with: Jessamine County, Madison County, Rockcastle County, Lincoln County, Boyle County, Mercer County

Website: https://garrardcounty.us

GPS coordinates: 37.63958,-84.53763

Latest update: December 7, 2025 20:24