From staff reports

Judge-Executive David West has issued a “Camp Nelson Selfie Challenge,” in hopes to increase awareness for what he says is a national treasure.

“As a national monument, (Camp Nelson) will have the opportunity to draw more visitors than ever before,” West said in a prepared statement.  “Camp Nelson’s designation as a national monument would also mean a significant increase in visitors and tourism dollars to Jessamine County. That, in turn, provides funding for county projects and enhances our residents’ quality of life. It’s a win-win-win.”

The challenge has already begun and will end July 15, with winners chosen at random for three different prizes.  Those prizes include Taylor Made Horse Farm and lunch at Daddy Joe’s Restaurant for two; Camp Nelson Swag Bag, with a reproduction Union soldier hat, Camp Nelson t-shirt and poster, a Howard Fain print, ect.; and Camp Nelson Civil War Heritage Park Treasure Seekers Archeological Dig for four with archeologist Dr. Stephen McBride.

There is a list of designated selfie spots at Camp Nelson, located at 6614 Danville Road, for those who wish to participate. They are as follows: Oliver Perry White House; cannon one or two; Interpretive Center, inside or out; Restored Barracks, inside or out; Refugee Cemetery Monument; Fort Putnam, recreated fort; Stone Fort number one; Stone Fort number two; and Spring Trail Head. 

As part of West’s efforts to increase knowledge and appreciation of Camp Nelson Civil War Heritage Park, he has also invited numerous local politicians and leaders, including Rep. Andy Barr, to Camp Nelson Civil War Heritage Park which triggered a series of events that could result in the park’s eventual designation as a national monument.  After learning that the Department of Interior (DOI) planned to review national monument designations, Barr and his staff worked with West and other county officials and CNHP representatives to submit information regarding CNHP’s historical significance to the agency. In December 2017, it was announced that the DOI placed a recommendation to award national monument status to CNHP on the president’s desk.

For more information regarding Camp Nelson Civil War Heritage Park, call (859) 881-5716 or visit www.campnelson.org. 

For more information regarding the Camp Nelson Selfie Challenge call the Jessamine County Judge-Executive’s Office at 859-885-4500, visit www.jessamineco.com, or “Jessamine County, Kentucky” on Facebook.