Welcome to
Kentucky· Est. 1793
Where rivers meet, history echoes, and Bluegrass charm welcomes you to Cynthiana.
Cynthiana is known as the birthplace of Milton Leach, who was the second longest-lived of the seven Leach Brothers, and was one of the most famous circus performers in the United States. The Leach Brothers, or "The Riding Leaches" toured the world in the late 1800s and early 1900s.
Cynthiana is the county seat of Harrison County.
The South Licking River and Main Licking River merge in Cynthiana, creating the Licking River.
During the Civil War, the town was the site of two battles, both known as the Battle of Cynthiana.
Cynthiana, Kentucky, nestled in the heart of Harrison County, boasts a history deeply intertwined with the early development of the Bluegrass region. Founded in 1793 at the confluence of the South and Main Licking Rivers, the town was named in honor of daughters Cynthia and Anna, belonging to early landowners Robert Harrison and Samuel McConnel respectively, merging their names into "Cynthiana." Its strategic location quickly established it as a vital trading hub for agricultural products, particularly hemp and tobacco, with river transport being crucial for commerce. Early settlers were primarily of Scotch-Irish and English descent, contributing to the area's distinctive cultural fabric.
Cynthiana played a significant role during the Civil War, experiencing two separate battles within its limits. The First Battle of Cynthiana in 1862 saw Confederate forces under John Hunt Morgan raid the town, disrupting Union supply lines. The Second Battle of Cynthiana in 1864, a more significant engagement, resulted in a Union victory but left the town heavily damaged. These battles highlight Cynthiana's strategic importance in the struggle for Kentucky, a border state with divided loyalties. Today, Cynthiana retains its historic charm, with well-preserved architecture and a strong sense of community, attracting visitors interested in exploring Kentucky's rich past.
Partner with us to share your town with all of Kentucky — featured placement, local business highlights, and a home for your community on the map.
Partner with usshop:gift
116 S Main St, Cynthiana, KY 41031, USA
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136 S Main St, Cynthiana, KY 41031, USA
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203 E Pike St, Cynthiana, KY 41031, USA
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930 US-27, Cynthiana, KY 41031, USA
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842 US-62, Cynthiana, KY 41031, USA
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124 S Walnut St, Cynthiana, KY 41031, USA
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206 S Walnut St, Cynthiana, KY 41031, USA
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105 Railroad Avenue, Cynthiana
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304 South Church Street, Cynthiana
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111 Riverside Drive, Cynthiana
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105 N Main St, Cynthiana, KY 41031, USA
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201 S Main St b, Cynthiana, KY 41031, USA
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219 S Walnut St #9, Cynthiana, KY 41031, USA
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101 Water Works Ave, Cynthiana, KY 41031, USA
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117 N Main St UNIT 1, Cynthiana, KY 41031, USA
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786 US-27, Cynthiana, KY 41031, USA
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1094 US-27, Cynthiana, KY 41031, USA
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762 US Highway 27 South, Cynthiana, KY 41031, USA
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1127 KY-36 suite 1, Cynthiana, KY 41031, USA
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1050 US-27, Cynthiana, KY 40311, USA
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810 US-27, Cynthiana, KY 41031, USA
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253 S Church St, Cynthiana, KY 41031, USA
While we prioritize independent local storefronts that carry the soul of the town, these national brands are located nearby and support local employment.
Dairy Queen Grill & Chill
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Lee's Famous Recipe Chicken
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Tractor Supply Company
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Connections that unite Cynthiana with other Kentucky towns
administrative
Cultural Heritage