Jackson Purchase Historical Society

Overview

The Jackson Purchase Historical Society (JPHS) is a U.S. nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and promoting the regional history of southwestern Kentucky and northwestern Tennessee. Established in 1958 by amateur historians, the society focuses on the historical and cultural developments within the Jackson Purchase region.

Mission

The JPHS mission is centered around preserving and encouraging the study of regional history. This includes the documentation and promotion of historical events, figures, and cultural landmarks specific to the region.

Activities and Partnerships

The society publishes a journal that serves as a primary outlet for historical research and essays related to the Jackson Purchase area. The journal includes scholarly articles, meeting minutes, interviews, and book reviews, providing a comprehensive view of the region's history.

JPHS also engages in partnerships with other historical groups to enhance its mission. For instance, it collaborated with the Paducah Historic Preservation Group (PHPG) to promote the Helen LaFrance Collection, which highlights African American art and history in the region. This collection is significant for preserving cultural heritage and making it accessible to the public.

Region of Focus

The Jackson Purchase itself is a historical area that includes eight counties in western Kentucky (Ballard, Calloway, Carlisle, Fulton, Graves, Hickman, Marshall, and McCracken) and four counties in Tennessee (Henry, Lake, Obion, and Weakley). This region was acquired by the United States in 1818 through a treaty with the Chickasaw Indian Nation, negotiated by General Andrew Jackson, among others.

Notable Initiatives

• Helen LaFrance Collection Tour: A notable initiative in recent years has been the tour of the Helen LaFrance Collection, which celebrates the works of a renowned local artist known for her folk art and spiritual paintings.
• Publication of Historical Journals: The society continues to publish annual journals, documenting regional history through scholarly articles and research.

Impact

The Jackson Purchase Historical Society plays a crucial role in maintaining and promoting regional historical knowledge, bolstering community engagement with historical resources, and fostering academic collaboration through its publications and collaborative projects.