Beech Grove/Noble Ellis

Historical marker location:

Somerset, Kentucky

( Mill Springs Battlefield, Somerset)

In late 1861, Confederate Gen. Felix Zollicoffer advanced into Ky. from Jamestown, Tn. Zollicoffer ordered seizure of area ferry boats to cross his army to the north side of the Cumberland River. Unable to locate adequate boats, Zollicoffer constructed transports at Mill Springs. On December 5, 1861, he crossed his army and built a winter camp here at Beech Grove.

Reverse

Noble Ellis- At Beech Grove, Zollicoffer’s army was supplied by a steamboat, the Noble Ellis. When the Confederates were defeated at the Battle of Mill Springs on Jan. 19, 1862, they returned to their camp here. To escape advancing Union troops, that night several boats, including the Noble Ellis, took the Confederates to the south side of the river. The Noble Ellis was then burned.

Dedicated March 1, 2015.

Civil War Confederate Army Battle of Mill Springs Steamboats