Historical Marker

A Civil War Action


Brig. General A. R. Johnson and 30 CSA raiders took city, capturing 50 guns, hospital supplies, and commissary stores July 17, 1862, then raided Newburg, Ind., and returned to Henderson. Threat of Morgan's Raiders prevented USA Hdqrs. at Louisville from sending relief. July 22 troops arrived here from Evansville, Ind., but CSA troops had abandoned area.

Dedicated November 24, 1962

  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 Adam R. Johnson Morgan's Raiders
Kentucky is known as the "Bluegrass State" because of the bluegrass that grows in many of its pastures.
Kentucky random facts
Henderson County, Kentucky, located in the western part of the state, has a rich history that dates back many centuries. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Shawnee and Cherokee, who relied on the fertile land for hunting and agriculture. European settlers began arriving in the late 18th century, with James Smith establishing one of the first permanent settlements, known as Red Banks, in 1797.

In the early 19th century, Henderson County experienced rapid growth and development thanks to its location along the Ohio River. The town of Henderson was officially established in 1810 and quickly became a hub for river trade and commerce. The county also played a significant role in the American Civil War, with both Union and Confederate troops occupying the area at different times. The Battle of Sacramento, fought in 1862, took place in Henderson County and was a Union victory.

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Henderson County thrived due to its rich agricultural resources. Tobacco and corn became staple crops, and the county became known for its tobacco warehouses and milling facilities. The county's industrial sector also grew, with the establishment of coal mines and manufacturing plants. Henderson even briefly became the largest producer of shipping goods in the state.

In the modern era, Henderson County continues to flourish as a vibrant community. It embraces its historical roots while also embracing new opportunities for economic growth. The county is known for its natural beauty, including the scenic Ohio Riverfront and numerous parks and recreational areas. Today, Henderson County remains a thriving part of western Kentucky, with a strong sense of community and a dedication to preserving its rich history.

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

  • 1799 - Henderson County was established on April 20, 1799.
  • 1801 - The first courthouse was built in Henderson.
  • 1853 - The Ohio River flood caused significant damage to the county.
  • 1861-1865 - Henderson County residents actively participated in the American Civil War.
  • 1870 - The Louisville and Nashville Railroad reached Henderson.
  • 1895 - The first hydroelectric plant was established on the Green River.
  • 1917-1918 - Henderson County contributed soldiers to World War I.
  • 1924 - The infamous Clyde Barrow, of Bonnie and Clyde fame, started his criminal career in Henderson County.
  • 1930s - The Great Depression heavily affected the county.
  • 1956 - Uniontown was the site of a tragic school bus accident that led to major changes in school bus safety standards.
  • 1965 - The Diversion Channel was constructed to mitigate flooding issues in the county.
  • 2005 - The riverboat casino Tropicana Evansville opened nearby, bringing economic benefits to the area.