James Henry Priest (March 4, 1827 – August 8, 1884) was a longtime public servant and one of Henderson’s most prominent 19th-century law enforcement officials. Born in Daviess County, Kentucky, he moved with his family to Henderson County as a boy, where he would spend the remainder of his life in service to the community.
Priest began his career as a policeman and rose steadily through the ranks during a formative period in Henderson’s municipal government. He served on the police force for approximately eight years and was elected to multiple terms as City Marshal, a position that, following changes to the city charter, functioned essentially as Chief of Police. Contemporary newspapers described him as an efficient and capable officer whose service was widely accepted by the public, including former political opponents.
City records from the late 1870s and early 1880s repeatedly list Priest as Chief of Police and Marshal, reflecting his central role in maintaining public order during a time of growth and transition for Henderson. He remained in office until illness forced him to step aside in the summer of 1884. He died shortly thereafter from what was described as congestion of the brain, at the age of 57.
Priest married Mary Jane Negley in 1853, and together they raised six children. She preceded him in death several years before his passing. His death was widely mourned, and newspapers noted the sympathy extended to his family by the entire community.
James H. Priest is buried at Fernwood Cemetery, where his monument stands among those of other early civic leaders who helped shape Henderson’s history. His career represents the early professionalization of law enforcement in the city and a lifetime devoted to public service.
