Morrison, James, 1755-1823

Biographical note: James Morrison, a native of Cumberland County, Pennsylvania, served as an officer during the Revolutionary War and subsequently as a sheriff of Cumberland County prior to coming to Lexington, Kentucky in 1792. Having entered into business here as a merchant, he was appointed land commissioner by Isaac Shelby, and in 1797 represented Fayette County in the Kentucky legislature. Thereafter, he served as navy agent and as deputy quartermaster general during the War of 1812, both positions giving him opportunities to establish markets for Kentucky hemp and other products.

Morrison was chair of the Transylvania University Board of Trustees from 1819 to 1823. Morrison Hall, designed by Gideon Shryock, was constructed from funds left to Transylvania on his death.

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