Historical Marker

Courthouse Burned


Twenty-two Kentucky courthouses were burned during Civil War, nineteen in last fifteen months: twelve by Confederates, eight by guerrillas, two by Union accident. See map on reverse side. Courthouse and other buildings in Tompkinsville burned by CSA force, April 22, 1863, in reprisal for Federals burning Celina, Tenn. Monroe County records were lost.

Erected in 1963

  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 Courthouses Burned
Kentucky is known as the "Bluegrass State" because of the bluegrass that grows in many of its pastures.
Kentucky random facts
Monroe County, Kentucky has a rich and diverse history that spans centuries. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Shawnee and Cherokee, who had a significant presence in the region. European exploration and settlement began in the late 18th century when pioneers ventured into the area in search of new opportunities.

In the early 1800s, Monroe County was officially established as a county in Kentucky, named after President James Monroe. The county quickly developed as an agricultural region, with farming and livestock becoming the primary means of sustenance for its inhabitants. The growth of cotton production in the mid-19th century further propelled the county's economy, leading to the establishment of cotton mills and the importation of enslaved African Americans to work the fields.

During the Civil War, Monroe County experienced a great deal of strife, being situated on the border between the Union and Confederate states. The county saw several skirmishes and battles, including the Battle of Tompkinsville, which resulted in significant casualties. The war left a lasting impact on the county, with many families and communities divided for years to come.

In the 20th century, Monroe County continued to evolve, embracing modernization and growth. The advent of transportation, such as railroads and highways, opened up new opportunities for commerce and trade. The county's agriculture sector diversified, with tobacco, corn, and soybeans becoming important crops.

Today, Monroe County is known for its scenic landscape, rich agricultural heritage, and friendly community. It remains a primarily rural area, with a focus on farming and the preservation of its historical heritage. The county is home to various cultural and recreational events, as well as natural wonders like the Barren River Lake and the stunning rolling hills of the Mammoth Cave National Park.

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

  • 1799 - Monroe County is established from parts of Barren and Cumberland counties.
  • 1808 - The first courthouse in Monroe County is constructed.
  • 1820s - The county sees an influx of settlers from Virginia and North Carolina.
  • 1830 - The county's population reaches about 7,000 residents.
  • 1850 - The completion of the Louisville and Nashville Turnpike brings economic growth to the county.
  • 1870s - The construction of railroads in the county further boosts transportation and commerce.
  • 1930s - Monroe County is heavily affected by the Great Depression, resulting in widespread poverty.
  • 1940s - During World War II, many residents of Monroe County serve in the military.
  • 1950s - The establishment of Dale Hollow Lake as a reservoir and recreation area brings tourism to the county.
  • 1960s - Monroe County experiences a decline in population due to rural-to-urban migration.
  • 1999 - The Monroe County Bicentennial is celebrated with various events and activities.