The debate began with an unsystematic survey conducted by Thomas Walker in 1779. The disagreement was resolved after a series of legislative battles and new surveys conducted in 1820. In 1858-1859, commissioners from the two states met to mark the boundary with stone markers. This marker is one of 63 stone posts placed every five miles. Because of its association with events leading to the establishment of the state boundary between Tennessee and Kentucky and remaining in its original location, State Line Marker No. 20 is eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places under Criterion A. The full eligibility evaluation can be viewed here.