Edgar Cayce, the most famous figure in 20th century American spiritualism, was born near Hopkinsville in 1877. Known as the "sleeping prophet," Cayce claimed to channel medical diagnoses and prophecies while in a trance state. His followers established the Association for Research and Enlightenment, which continues to operate from Virginia Beach.
A historical marker near his birthplace site in Beverly, just south of Hopkinsville, commemorates the connection. The Pennyroyal Area Museum downtown also has a small Cayce exhibit. Whether you consider him a genuine mystic or a skilled performer, his story is woven into the fabric of Hopkinsville.