Newport in Campbell County, Kentucky — The American South (East South Central)
Licking River
Photographed By Duane and Tracy Marsteller, May 30, 2021
1. Licking River Marker
Before pioneer families settled Kentucky and Ohio, Native Americans followed the Licking River to the grasslands of central Kentucky to hunt abundant buffalo and deer. The early settlers probably named the river for the many salt licks nestled in its valley.By the time Cincinnati entered its boom periods in the 1840s and 1850s, many visitors found the Licking Valley a welcome retreat from the dense population and grime of the Queen City. After a ferry ride on the Licking in 1851, William Wells referred to it as "peculiarly picturesque and romantic."
But the Licking River could not long escape the effects of Newport's and Covington's own industrial growth. Although never dammed, the Licking provided river access for small packets and barges supplying the mills and factories that developed on its banks.
"On crossing the water to Kentucky the scene is greatly improved, beech and chestnut of magnificent growth border the beautiful river; the ground has been all cleared and the hemlage is excellent; pawpaws grow abundantly ... the noble tulip tree flourished here and blooms profusely." — Frances Trollope,1832
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Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Industry & Commerce • Waterways & Vessels.
Location. 39° 5.532′ N, 84° 30.116′ W. Marker is in Newport, Kentucky, in Campbell County. Marker can be reached from Riverboat Row, on the right when traveling north. Marker is on the Newport Levee trail. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Newport KY 41071, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Newport Barracks (a few steps from this marker); James Taylor, Newport's Founder (within shouting distance of this marker); a different marker also named Newport Barracks (within shouting distance of this marker); Fort Thomas (within shouting distance of this marker); Defending the Valley (within shouting distance of this marker); The Civil War in Northern Kentucky (within shouting distance of this marker); Flood Walls (within shouting distance of this marker); Cincinnati Skyline Pre-1865 (within shouting distance of this marker). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Newport.
Photographed By Duane and Tracy Marsteller, May 30, 2021
2. Licking River Marker
Credits. This page was last revised on June 6, 2021. It was originally submitted on June 6, 2021, by Duane and Tracy Marsteller of Murfreesboro, Tennessee. This page has been viewed 228 times since then and 126 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on June 6, 2021, by Duane and Tracy Marsteller of Murfreesboro, Tennessee.
