Early in the Fall of 2021, Paula Jerrell, Ballard County 4-H Agent approached Tom Miller, Ballard County ANR Agent about developing a driving tour around the county to highlight historical places.  The intent was that 4-Hers could participate in the tour over fall break and earn some achievement points in historic landmarks.

Tom Miller went around the county locating all historic markers and developed a route that coincided with the historical development in the county.  Transportation and the changing modes was the focus for historical development.  The tour starts on the river, with historic Indian Mounds, moves through the Civil War’s impact on the county.  The focus then shifts  to the horse and buggy days of crossroads and general stores to the development of the railroad and the towns that came with it.  The tour ends with the modern highways and future expansion of bridges and interstates and how that will further shape the county’s future and economic development.

The driving tour was very well received by 4-Hers, but was also picked up by the Ballard County Judge Executive Office and the Ballard County Chamber of Commerce to promote tourism and history in Ballard County as is available at several tourist stops across the County.