The Kilgore Fort House was built in 1786 by Robert Kilgore, whose family were early settlers in this area. It was one of twelve forts between Castlewood and Cumberland Gap that provided ready refuge for settlers from Indian attacks in the late 18th century. Kilgore later became a preacher in the Primitive Baptist Church and often held religious services at the Fort House. He married Jane Porter Green, daughter of Patrick Porter, who built Porter’s Fort on Fall Creek.