Hemp

DID YOU KNOW? …In 1775, the hemp crop made its first appearance on Clarks Run Creek, located near Danville, KY. Because this crop was not native to Kentucky at the time, it had to be imported from England and other European countries. The fiber from the hemp crop was originally used for homespun items such as twine, rope, thread and textiles. Hemp's popularity began to grow dramatically between 1790 and 1800 when settlements began to evolve into more organized enterprises.During the early 1800s, Kentucky was considered a leader in the production and exportation of hemp and began to manufacture products from it. With a great amount of seed, came large amounts of fiber which was then spun into rope at locations known as “ROPEWALKS”. These areas were outdoor spaces where hemp fibers were spun in order to make this sturdy rope. By 1809, Kentucky was producing bailing materials for the entire South. Mills on Lower Howards Creek, located near Hall's on the River, were associated with the hemp rope production and shipped their products out of Holder’s Station to downriver.The growth of hemp in the U.S. during the 19th Century dwindled with the availability of cheaper imported fibers from Manila and the East India Company. During War II, however, the Japanese took possession of the Philippines and the East India Company, and since jute supply from India was also restricted, the Americans had to produce hemp once again, for industrial purposes as well as to sustain the vast demand from the US Army and Navy. Rope made from hemp was used in rigging, towing and mooring the ships, paratroopers needed webbing for their parachutes and the hemp fiber was even used to make shoes for the soldiers.