Located in the heart of the Bluegrass State, Nelson County is a wonderful place to live, work and raise a family. With a thriving business community and a strong family atmosphere, Bardstown and Nelson County have become a destination location. Our history dates back to 1784, when Nelson County was formed from Jefferson County and was named for Virginian Governor and signer of the Declaration of Independence, General Thomas Nelson Jr. Our county seat of Bardstown was settled in 1780, and is Kentucky’s second-oldest city.