Harrod, James

James Harrod was a pioneer settler who established the first permanent settlement in Kentucky. This settlement was called Harrodstown which is today known as Harrodsburg. It was established in 1774. James Harrod married Anne McDonald (or McDaniel), a widow, in 1778. She bore a child, Margaret, in 1785. James Harrod left many mysteries upon his death. These include his date of birth, and the time and manner of his death. In the winter of 1792, Harrod went on a hunting trip and was not heard from again. There are several theories about his death. One theory, his being killed by a man called Bridges, is discussed in the collection. Others theories include: Harrod took a "wilderness divorce" from Anne, that he was mauled by animals, or that he was killed by Indians. Anne married again in 1804. She annuled her marriage to her third husband, John Tadlock, claiming James Harrod was still alive. Later, though, she said Harrod died while hunting so she could claim his war pension.