Timeline for the Beginnings of the "Electrical Light" Era for Bardstown

Unanimous Vote, the City Council set an election by referendum for the question of whether to approve the sale of bonds to finance an electric system. A representative from the General Electric Company of New York had proposed to the City Council an estimated cost of $7,500 for the new electrical system.

On April 30,1895, out of 332 eligible voters, 237 electors voted yes, 15 voted no. Within a few months, by late 1895, the system was in place. From the Nelson County Record of January 1,1896, the following was reported:

"Wednesday night, for the first time, the twenty-five arc lights were turned on, and the people were generally happy. We failed to note a grumble on the part of any one. The workmen seemed to be getting along better lately, and are trying to please and satisfy all. The light also seems to be brighter, as was noticed- particularly Wednesday night-perhaps on account of the increase in the number of lights. Everyday new orders are entered and it will not be long before every residence in town will have them. When people become more accustomed to them they would not be without them, and property owners who desire to rent their house, will be compelled to have same wired."