Jackson Purchase Historical Society Journal Archive
Article Title
Henry Ward: Jackson Purchase Master Builder
Abstract
This article will focus on the accomplishments of Henry Ward, Paducah politician and journalist/editor for the Paducah Sun Democrat. These include leadership roles in securing approval of Kentucky Dam, the fight against private power, removal of tolls on the many public bridges built in the 1930s to encourage tourism and reduce the sense of isolation prevalent in the Jackson Purchase, the development of the region's first-class state parks, and marked improvements in its highway system by construction of I-24, the Purchase Parkway and the arterial system associated with them. His public career ended with his unsuccessful effort to become the Purchase's first governor in his loss to Louie Nunn in the 1967 general election.