Jessamine County is a county in the central part of the U.S. state of Kentucky. Formed in 1798, it had a population of 48,586 at the 2010 census. The county seat and largest town is Nicholasville, which serves as the local center for government, commerce and services.

Situated in Kentucky's Bluegrass region, the county combines rolling farmland, small urban neighborhoods and wooded stream valleys. Its proximity to Lexington means many residents commute to jobs and cultural venues in the nearby city, and the area is often considered part of the broader Lexington metropolitan area.

The county's name is commonly associated with the fragrant jessamine (jasmine) plants that grew along local creeks when the area was first settled. Early European-American settlement took place in the late 18th century; the county was carved from neighboring counties and developed a pattern of small towns and agricultural homesteads. County administration and courts are concentrated in the courthouse district and other civic buildings in the county seat (county government).

Today Jessamine County has a mixed economy. Traditional agriculture—hay, pasture and livestock—remains important alongside light manufacturing, retail and service industries. Education is significant locally: Wilmore hosts Asbury University and Asbury Theological Seminary, institutions that contribute to the county's cultural and economic life.

Communities in the county include Nicholasville and Wilmore, together with smaller unincorporated villages and rural neighborhoods. Local attractions reflect Bluegrass heritage, outdoor recreation along creeks and community festivals. The county's blend of small-town character and access to regional amenities makes it notable within central Kentucky.

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