The Battle of Middle Creek
Historical marker location:At this site, on Jan. 10, 1862, Union troops under Col. James A. Garfield defeated Confederates led by Gen. Humphrey Marshall. Garfield's 1,100 Ohioans and Kentuckians advanced up Middle Creek and clashed with Marshall's 1,967 Virginians and Kentuckians. Marshall's main force occupied ridge on the south side of Middle Creek. The battle began about noon, with the Union troops fighting their way up the ridges and the Confederates counterattacking down them. Turning point came at 4:00 p.m., when Garfield's reserves arrived from Paintsville. Faced with fresh Union troops and advancing shadows, Marshall withdrew his troops from ridge and retreated. Union losses: 3 killed, 18 wounded; Confederate losses: 12 killed, 15 wounded.
(Reverse) The Fitzpatrick Farm - The Battle of Middle Creek was fought on land owned by Henry Clay Fitzpatrick (1823-1895), son of Jonathan Fitzpatrick and grandson of Bath Co., Va., native John Fitzpatrick, Revolutionary War veteran, who established a farm here sometime before 1800. John is buried on Graveyard Point, Garfield's command post during battle. Henry's son Hiram H. Fitzpatrick, Floyd County Clerk, inherited the farm and passed it to his son Henry D. Fitzpatrick, Sr. and daughter Osa F. Ligon. Next owners were Henry D. Fitzpatrick, Jr., president of The Bank Josephine, and Osa's daughter, Sally Ligon Clarke. Farm is now owned by Middle Creek National Battlefield Foundation, founded in 1992 by Franklin D. Fitzpatrick, son of H. D. Fitzpatrick, Jr
The first successful gold rush in the United States occurred in 1806 in Kentucky. The gold was found in the sand and gravel of the Ohio River and its tributaries.
In 1799, Floyd County was established by the Virginia General Assembly, named in honor of Virginia governor John Floyd. The county initially included a vast territory that later became several other counties as the region developed. The early settlers in Floyd County relied on subsistence farming and hunting for their livelihoods. The county also became an important center for salt production, as numerous salt springs were discovered in the area.
During the Civil War, Floyd County witnessed its share of conflict. The region was divided in its loyalties, with some residents supporting the Union and others the Confederacy. Guerrilla warfare was prevalent, with both sides engaging in raids and attacks. In 1862, Confederate forces under General Humphrey Marshall clashed with Union troops at the Battle of Middle Creek, resulting in a Union victory. This battle was a significant moment in the county's history, as it helped secure eastern Kentucky for the Union cause.
In the early 20th century, the development of the coal industry brought significant changes to Floyd County. Coal mining became the primary economic driver, attracting large numbers of miners and their families to the area. However, the industry also brought labor disputes, environmental challenges, and economic fluctuations. Today, Floyd County is known for its rich coal heritage, beautiful natural landscapes, and a vibrant community that celebrates its history while striving for a prosperous future.
Floyd County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Floyd County, Kentucky.
- 1799: Floyd County is established as a county in Kentucky.
- 1800: The first permanent settlement is established in the county.
- 1803: The county's first courthouse is constructed.
- 1807: Prestonsburg is officially established as the county seat.
- 1861-1865: Floyd County residents actively participate in the American Civil War.
- 1920s: The county experiences a boom in the coal mining industry.
- 1984: The Big Sandy Community and Technical College is established in Floyd County.