Historical Marker

Morgan's Last Raid


On tragic last Kentucky raid, CSA Gen. John H. Morgan and Raiders entered state June 1, 1864, took Mt. Sterling June 8, lost it on 9th, took Lexington on 10th, and Cynthiana on 11th. USA under General S. G. Burbridge defeated CSA next day. Morgan retreated through here, reaching Virginia June 20. See map on other side. Raiders never recovered from this reverse

  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.

Stephen G. Burbridge Civil War Battle of Cynthiana Lexington John Hunt Morgan Mt. Sterling
The town of Elizabethtown, Kentucky, was the birthplace of Colonel Harland Sanders, the founder of Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC).
Kentucky random facts
Johnson County, located in the eastern part of Kentucky, has a rich and fascinating history. The area was first settled by European pioneers in the late 18th century, with the first permanent settlement established around 1800. The early settlers were primarily of Irish and English descent, seeking opportunities in the fertile lands along the Big Sandy River.

During the early 19th century, the county experienced significant growth and development. The discovery of coal and the development of the railroad in the mid-1800s brought economic prosperity to the area. The coal industry boomed, attracting numerous workers and contributing to the county's population growth.

The region also played a significant role in the Civil War. Johnson County, like many areas in Kentucky, was divided in its loyalties. While some residents sympathized with the Confederacy, others joined the Union Army. The county became a battleground during the war, with several skirmishes and conflicts taking place in the area.

In the 20th century, Johnson County saw further economic growth and diversification. The coal industry remained a major source of employment and revenue, with numerous mines operating in the region. The county also saw the establishment of various industries, including timber, agriculture, and manufacturing.

Today, Johnson County continues to be a vibrant community with a mix of rural and urban areas. It is known for its natural beauty, including the picturesque Appalachian Mountains and the scenic Tug Fork River. The county's history, marked by its pioneers, coal industry, and participation in the Civil War, is celebrated and preserved through various local museums and historical sites.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Johnson County, Kentucky.

  • 1780s: Early settlers arrive in what is now Johnson County, Kentucky
  • 1800: Johnson County is established as a county
  • 1812: War of 1812 begins, impacting the area's development and economy
  • 1820: Population of Johnson County reaches over 2,000 people
  • 1833: Johnson County Courthouse is built in Paintsville, becoming the county seat
  • 1850s: Railroad development begins, improving transportation in the area
  • 1861-1865: American Civil War affects Johnson County, with some residents supporting the Union cause while others join the Confederacy
  • 1865-1900: Post-war reconstruction period sees slow economic growth in the county
  • 1900s: Johnson County experiences agricultural and industrial advancements, with coal mining becoming a prominent industry
  • 1937: The Great Flood devastates Paintsville and other parts of Johnson County
  • 1950s-1960s: Economic diversification occurs, with the establishment of hospitals, educational institutions, and other industries
  • Late 20th century: Johnson County continues to develop and grow, with improvements in infrastructure, healthcare, and education