Historic Rugby

An English Settlement dating back to the 1880's, Historic Rugby is a living history book of early settlement in this Area. Founded by author Thomas Hughes, the settlement was established for the "younger sons" of England coming to America, those who would not inherit from their fathers.

At its peak in 1887, Rugby boasted a population of nearly 500. More than fifty residences existed, and the community was the largest in a three county area (Morgan, Scott, and Fentress Counties). The private and public buildings were all built in the Victorian architectural style.

Today, visitors can learn from interpretive exhibits that trace the town's history, tour Victorian buildings, explore river gorge trails built by 1880's colonists, and shop for books and traditional handicrafts. There are two restaurants and several unique lodging facilities within the community.

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