Kentucky has a fascinating history, and not just within the last few hundred years. Thousands of years ago, before we were officially the Bluegrass State, locals still roamed the lands and likely loved this beautiful state for many of the same reasons we do today. There is evidence of this history and these people throughout the state and one hidden gem historical spot can be found in Manchester at the Red Bird River Petroglyphs in Kentucky. This large rock contains at least 8 different languages and is a must-see destination for any history buff in the Bluegrass.

This large rock in Manchester, Kentucky is known as many things. It has been called the Red Bird River Petroglyphs, Red Bird Petroglyphs, the Red Bird Rock, and likely other names over the years.
Facebook/Natural Winter Solstice Alignment Cave in Clay Co. Kentucky USA
No matter what you call it, this historic rock contains petroglyphs, or carvings, and now sits under a shelter within Rawlings/Stinson Park. You can visit it along a trail during the park's open hours.
This rock has had quite the history and there are many stories surrounding it.
Wikipedia/Daron Rainer
It once sat on a sandstone cliff above the Red Bird River, but in 1994, the 50-ton stone fell to the ground onto Highway 66. It was then moved to its current location and has been there ever since.

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There is some speculation about the petroglyphs on the stone, but many do believe it holds at least 8 different old world languages.
Facebook/Natural Winter Solstice Alignment Cave in Clay Co. Kentucky USA
These languages would have been extinct before Columbus sailed in 1492, so the carvings are possibly very old. There are actually many petroglyphs nearby throughout Clay County, which are commonly linked to the Cherokee who once lived in the area.
Those who believe the carvings are ancient say that you can see examples of the alphabet from 1st century Greek and Hebrew, as well as Old Libyan, Old Arabic and Iberian-Punic which probably date from the 9th century BC. Ogam, Germanic Runes, and Tiffinag-Numidian inscriptions have also been identified.
Facebook/Natural Winter Solstice Alignment Cave in Clay Co. Kentucky USA
Petroglyphs in sandstone are extremely hard to date, thanks to the weathering over time and also the nature of the sandstone, itself. But either way, these carvings are fascinating and a true part of our state's history.
You can view them for yourself within the park, and also walk along the hiking trails and experience other historic sites and lessons.
Wikipedia/HuMcCulloch
Also consider exploring more of Clay County and its other petroglyphs that tell stories from our state's history. Just be sure to include a visit to the Red Bird River Petroglyphs in Kentucky.

Learn more about the petroglyphs in Kentucky in this informative video:

The Red Bird River Petroglyphs in Kentucky are a bit of a mystery, but fascinating nonetheless. As a representation of several ancient languages, this rock and its carvings are a must-visit for anyone who is intrigued by the history of Kentucky. Did you know about this historic rock in Manchester? Let us know in the comments!

The Red Bird River Petroglyphs in Kentucky are located in Rawlings/Stinson Park in Manchester. You can learn more about all that you’ll find here, including the rock, on the park’s website.

And for more history, check out these 7 Kentucky hikes that lead to incredible pieces of our state’s past.

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