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Early documentation shows that many believed that Bradfordsville was located at the center of the state and was once named "Centerville".
The name Bradfordsville comes from the Bradford family who settled here in the early 1800's and established the first business in the area--a grist mill. The early business grew out of need and was followed by the community being called "Bradford's Mill." At the time of the incorporation with the state of Kentucky, the name became Bradfordsville.
Dr. Joseph Rose along with other founding fathers surveyed and planned the community to have the pattern of settlement that is still visible today. Dr. Rose had very successful offspring, including a son, Uriah Rose, who a native of Bradfordsville became the founder of the Arkansas Rose Law Firm with which first lady Hilary Clinton was associated with. Uriah was sent as an envoy to the Hague in the Netherlands by President Teddy Roosevelt. His statute is in Washington, D.C. Capitol Statuary Hall representing the state of Arkansas.
Bradfordsville had some conflict during the Civil War. The Quantrill Tour described in the brochure explains some of the troubles inflicted upon the community during the Civil War.
Bradfordsville tried to rebound after the burning of the Civil War. A college was established and incorporated soon after the Civil War. The education was very impressive in the area. One of the noted instructors was the later governor Stanley at this institution.
Bradfordsville continues to grow during the turn of the century. Mr Don Drye and friend Lewis established a rarity of the time with a a large 3 story department store that supposedly sold everything from the cradle to the grave. The business was one of the best accommodating in central Kentucky at the time.
Bradfordsville continued to progress until the late 1920's when a fire destroyed much of the down town area and economic s of the depression led much of the businesses to close. The town again rebuilt and soon established a new large school in 1936, a bank was established in the early 1960's, a doctor served the sick of the area, and many businesses were flourishing.
The town established upon religious principles was served by 4 churches for many years - the Baptist, the Mormons, the Christians, and the Methodist. This has helped to provide the strong Christian values of the area with the badge of being one of the few "dry" areas of Marion County. The strong work ethic and caring hospitality of the area are carved out of these strong religious backgrounds.
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