Kentucky Historical Society
KHS to Dedicate Historical Marker to Honor John S. Darrough

FRANKFORT, Ky. (May 20, 2010) — The Kentucky Historical Society (KHS) will dedicate a historical marker to honor John S. Darrough at 8 a.m. Monday, May 30 at 121 Limestone St. in Maysville, Ky.

John Samuel Darrough was born in Maysville April 6, 1841.  His family moved to Iroquois County, Illinois 11 years later. He enlisted in the Army in 1862 and served in Company F, 113th Illinois Infantry where he rose to the rank of Sergeant. He was awarded the Medal of Honor Feb. 5, 1895 for his actions on the Tennessee River at Eastport, Miss. during the Civil War. On Oct. 10, 1864, while trying to dismantle bridge and railroad tracks, his regiment was attacked by a Confederate battery. Retreating under heavy fire, Darrough spotted a helpless comrade and rescued him. The official Medal of Honor citation reads “Saved the life of a captain.” He returned to Iroquois County after the war, where he remained until his death August 14, 1920.

This marker is presented by V.F.W. Post 2734 & Ladies Auxiliary and the George Mason Chapter KYSSAR.

The Kentucky Historical Marker Program, administered by KHS in cooperation with the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, commemorates historical sites, events and personalities throughout the state. Through the program, the wealth of Kentucky history is made accessible to the public on markers along the state’s roadways. The markers are on-the-spot history lessons that add drama and interest to the countryside for native Kentuckians as well as tourists.

For more information about the program, contact Becky Riddle, Kentucky Historical Marker program coordinator, at 502-564-1792, ext. 4474 or becky.riddle@ky.gov.