History & Mission

Discover the rich heritage of the Lincoln Heritage Council and our mission to serve youth across Kentucky, Indiana, Illinois, and Tennessee.

One of America’s Oldest Local Councils

The Lincoln Heritage Council is one of the oldest local councils serving both urban and rural areas in the United States. Their first charter was granted under the name “Louisville Council” in 1916. In 1930, the council was extended to 22 counties and became known as the “Louisville Area Council”. Later, they applied for and received permission to change the name of the council to “Old Kentucky Home Council”, which remained the name until 1992.

In 1992, the George Rogers Clark Area Council, based out of New Albany, Indiana, chose to join efforts with their neighbor, the Old Kentucky Home Council. The councils merged, and on January 1, 1993, the Lincoln Heritage Council officially came to be.

On April 1, 2012 the Lincoln Heritage Council welcomed 39 counties in western Kentucky, Illinois and Tennessee formally served by the Shawnee Trails Council. The territory became the Western Service Area in the Lincoln Heritage Council.

Our Historical Timeline

First charter granted under the name “Louisville Council”

Extended to 22 counties, became “Louisville Area Council”

Name changed to “Old Kentucky Home Council”

Merged with George Rogers Clark Area Council to become “Lincoln Heritage Council”

Welcomed 39 counties from the Shawnee Trails Council, creating the Western Service Area

Our Current Structure

7 Geographical Districts

Organized to serve local communities throughout our territory with dedicated support and resources.

4 Service Areas

Strategic regions that ensure comprehensive program delivery and administrative support.

64 Counties Served

Across Kentucky, Illinois, Indiana, and Tennessee