Historical Marker

A Masterful Retreat


General George W. Morgan's 9,000 USA force occupied Cumberland Gap June 18 to Sept. 17, 1862. Cut off from supplies, Morgan began 200-mile retreat. From Manchester they moved in two columns, both seeking supplies, through here on to Proctor. Retreat from Gap to Greenup on Ohio River made in 16 days despite harassment by CSA Morgan's Raiders. Map other side.

Installed in 1964

  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 Morgan's Raiders
Kentucky is home to Mammoth Cave National Park, the world's longest known cave system with over 400 miles of explored passages.
Kentucky random facts
Owsley County, located in southeastern Kentucky, has a rich and distinct history. It was officially established in 1843 and named after William Owsley, the state's governor at the time. The early settlers were primarily of Scotch-Irish and English descent, who migrated to the region seeking fertile land for farming and opportunities for a new start. The county's geography, marked by rugged mountains and valleys, posed challenges for agricultural development, but the settlers persevered and gradually established a thriving farming community.

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Owsley County experienced a significant boom in coal mining, which brought economic growth and change to the region. The coal industry attracted workers from various parts of the country, leading to an increase in population and the establishment of several mining towns. However, the mining boom was short-lived, and by the mid-20th century, many mines had closed, leaving behind a struggling economy and high unemployment rates.

In recent decades, Owsley County has faced numerous challenges related to economic development and poverty. It often ranked as one of the poorest counties in the United States, prompting various organizations and initiatives to help uplift the community. Efforts have been made to diversify the economy, promote tourism, and improve educational opportunities. While there are still ongoing struggles, the resilience and determination of the residents continue to shape and redefine the county's history.

Today, Owsley County showcases a mix of traditional Appalachian culture and a growing emphasis on sustainable living. The county is known for its beautiful natural landscapes, including the Daniel Boone National Forest and the Red River Gorge, attracting outdoor enthusiasts and tourists. The community also takes pride in its rich musical heritage, with events like the Stringbean Memorial Bluegrass Festival honoring local musicians. With the spirit of innovation and a deep sense of connection to their roots, the people of Owsley County are working towards a brighter future while preserving the traditions that have shaped their history.

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

  • 1843 - Owsley County was established
  • 1860s - Owsley County was heavily impacted by the American Civil War
  • 1879 - Booneville became the county seat of Owsley County
  • 1940 - Owsley County reached its peak population of over 10,000 residents
  • 1953 - Owsley County experienced a devastating flood
  • 1960s - A decline in coal mining led to population decline
  • 2000 - Owsley County was recognized as the "Poorest County in America"