A state historical marker was unveiled Wednesday, identifying Lexington's Historic Distillery District on Manchester Street, west of downtown, currently being turned into an arts and entertainment area.

The Distillery District was a major whiskey producer for more than 100 years. It represents "the oldest industrial area in Lexington," Mayor Jim Newberry said during the unveiling.

The marker, provided by the Kentucky Historical Society, gives details of the former James E. Pepper Distillery, started in 1869 by the Headley and Farra Company. By the late 1800's, Pepper was selling whiskey to more than 90 distributors in the United States. It was bought by Schenley Products in 1933 and closed in 1962.

Reach Beverly Fortune at (859) 231-3251 or 1-800-950-6397, Ext. 3251