Whitley County was formed from Knox in 1818 and was named for Col. William Whitley, a famous leader in more than 17 Indian battles who by 1794 had driven Indians from southeast Kentucky, joined the Kentucky militia in the War of 1812, and was killed at the Battle of the Thames in 1813. Williamsburg, the seat of government, was also named for Col. Whitley. The first court was held in 1818 in the home of Samuel Cox, the first citizen of Williamsburg.