Historical Marker

Bell's Tavern


Erected by Wm. Bell, 1830. Stage stop for his lines that brought visitors to Mammoth Cave when first promoted. Famed in U.S. and Europe for elite patrons, cuisine and magic peach and honey brandy for "Joy before the journey's end," until it burned 1860. Civil War doomed completion of new tavern begun by grandson, Wm. F. Bell, and his stepfather, George M. Proctor

  A brief timeline of the Civil War

  • April 12, 1861: The Civil War begins with the Confederate attack on Fort Sumter, located in South Carolina's Charleston Harbor.

  • April 15, 1861: President Abraham Lincoln issues a call for 75,000 volunteers to serve in the Union Army to suppress the rebellion.

  • May 24, 1861: The first major land battle, known as the First Battle of Bull Run (or First Battle of Manassas), takes place in Virginia. It ends in Confederate victory.

  • September 17, 1862: The Battle of Antietam in Maryland becomes the bloodiest single-day battle in American history, with heavy casualties on both sides. The Union forces, commanded by General George McClellan, manage to halt Confederate General Robert E. Lee's advance into Union territory.

  • January 1, 1863: President Lincoln issues the Emancipation Proclamation, declaring that all slaves in Confederate-held territories are to be set free. However, the proclamation does not immediately free all slaves in the United States.

  • July 1-3, 1863: The Battle of Gettysburg in Pennsylvania takes place, resulting in a significant Union victory and inflicting heavy casualties on Confederate forces. It marks a turning point in the war.

  • November 19, 1863: President Lincoln delivers the Gettysburg Address, emphasizing the principles of liberty, equality, and the preservation of the Union.

  • April 9, 1865: General Robert E. Lee surrenders to Union General Ulysses S. Grant at Appomattox Court House in Virginia, effectively ending the Civil War.

  • April 14, 1865: President Lincoln is assassinated by John Wilkes Booth while attending a play at Ford's Theatre in Washington, D.C.

  • May 10, 1865: Confederate President Jefferson Davis is captured, signaling the collapse of the Confederate government.

  • December 6, 1865: The Thirteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution is ratified, officially abolishing slavery throughout the country.

While this timeline provides an overview of key events, it is important to note that the Civil War spanned over four years, from 1861 to 1865, and encompassed numerous battles, campaigns, and political developments that shaped the course of American history.

Civil War Stagecoach Stops Mammoth Cave
The first bourbon whiskey was distilled in Kentucky in the late 18th century. Today, Kentucky is known for its bourbon production and is home to many famous bourbon distilleries.
Kentucky random facts
Barren County, Kentucky has a rich and diverse history that dates back thousands of years. The region was originally inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Shawnee and Cherokee before European settlers arrived. The first recorded European explorer in the area was Dr. Thomas Walker in 1750, but it was not until the late 18th century that settlement began in earnest.

In 1799, Barren County was officially established, named after the Barrens, a large grassy plain that covered much of the area. The county quickly became a significant center of agricultural activity, with tobacco and corn being the main crops. Barren River, which flows through the area, provided excellent transportation and played a vital role in the growth and development of the county.

During the Civil War, Barren County experienced both Union and Confederate control as it was located between the opposing forces. The Battle of Woodsonville was fought in the county in 1861, and several skirmishes occurred throughout the war. After the conflict, the county saw a period of recovery and revitalization as agriculture remained a crucial part of the local economy.

In the 20th century, Barren County experienced significant changes. The county's economy shifted from primarily agriculture to include manufacturing and services. Glasgow, the county seat, developed into a thriving urban center with the establishment of various industries and businesses. Today, Barren County is known for its vibrant community, rich history, and beautiful landscapes, attracting visitors from around the world.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Barren County, Kentucky.

  • 1798 - Barren County is established as the 17th county in Kentucky.
  • 1810 - Glasgow, the county seat, is founded.
  • 1825 - The Glasgow Female Academy is established.
  • 1859 - The Louisville and Nashville Railroad is completed, connecting Barren County to major cities.
  • 1861-1865 - Barren County residents actively participate in the American Civil War.
  • 1870 - The State Normal School is opened in Glasgow, later becoming Western Kentucky University.
  • 1924 - The Barren River State Park is established, attracting visitors for outdoor recreation.
  • 1940-1945 - Barren County experiences economic growth due to the war effort.
  • 1963 - The Barren River Lake is created as part of a flood control project.
  • 1980s - Glasgow becomes known for its antique stores and attracts tourists.
  • 1990 - Mammoth Cave National Park, partly located in Barren County, is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.