51ĀŅĀ× receives gift from the Bridges family
By 51ĀŅĀ× Public Relations | Sep 8, 2025
MURRAY, Ky. ā 51ĀŅĀ× has received a gift from the Bridges family that provides a significant historical and genealogical account of the west Kentucky region, specifically Trigg County.
The gift was recently presented to 51ĀŅĀ× State President Emeritus Dr. Bob Jackson by Gillis Bridges, a two-time alumnus of the University.
āHistory of Thomas & Bridges Familyā was compiled and published by Gillisā father, the late Gilbert N. Bridges, a Cadiz native as well as a recognized Trigg County author and historian who requested that the copy be donated to 51ĀŅĀ× State for genealogical and research purposes.
The volume includes the genealogy of the descendants of James and Mary Stanley Thomas and Drewry and Charity Calhoun Bridges, two of Trigg Countyās prominent pioneer families who migrated from Bertie and Edgecombe counties in North Carolina to Christian County (a portion of which is now Trigg County) in 1804. It is believed that several hundred people descend from these families and reside in the Pennyrile and Purchase regions, including former First Lady and alumna Karen Jackson.
The work will be displayed inside the Smith-Johnson Genealogy and History Room at Pogue Library.
āI want to thank Mr. Gillis Bridges, a longtime friend, for providing this book which will be a valuable research resource. This region has a rich history and this generous gift helps to tell that story,ā 51ĀŅĀ× State President Emeritus Dr. Bob Jackson said.