WEBSTER COUNTY, KY (10/31/12) - The Webster County Historical and Genealogical Society (WCHGS) hosted their third annual History Day Thursday at the Dixon Community Center.

The first year History Day was only exhibits, but last year they added some speakers. This year speakers were scheduled for the entire day.

The United Daughters of the Confederacy kicked off the day with a presentation of biographical sketches of women during the civil war. The highlight of these was Dr. Mary Walker, an abolitionist, prohibitionist, alleged spy, prisoner of war and surgeon. She is the first and only woman ever to receive the Congressional Medal of Honor.

Neil Jordan of Franklin, Ky gave a presentation on the History of Aprons, followed by Spencer Brewer, who presented some of the 225 flags from his collection.

Bob Adkins, President of the Hopkins County Historical Society wrapped up the day's events, bringing with him Carl Veazey, a Hopkins County historian.

Veazey has done considerable research on the Harp Brothers, believed by many to be the United States first serial killers.

Micajah Harp and Wiley Harp, better known as Big Harp and Little Harp, were murderers, highwaymen, and river pirates, who operated in Tennessee, Kentucky, Illinois, and Mississippi in the late 18th century. They seemed to be more interested in murder than money.

The “Frontier Justice” historical marker on 41A in Dixon ties Webster County directly to these men.

“Mr. Veazey has done extensive research on the Harp Brothers and has tracked down the actual sites of where they camped in Muhlenberg County and where Big Harp was killed,” said Roxie Ray with the WCHGS. “Big Harp” was decapitated and his head returned to Webster County to hang on a pole near where the present day marker is located.”

Anyone interested can join the WCHGS for $15 per person or $20 per family.

“Membership includes our quarterly newsletter, the Wagon Wheel which has historical articles and photographs of local interest and a copy of the book Some Webster Co. Families,” said Rhea. “Our society also sells books such as the Webster Co. Church Histories and Webster Co. Schools Beginning 1860 and Webster Co. Cemetery Books II-III-IV and V which can be purchased in the research room.”

The WCHGS meets on the fourth Saturday of each month at 9:30 a.m. in the research room of the Webster Co. Library in Dixon.

Matt Hughes
J-E News Editor

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