Historical Marker

"Aunt Julia" Marcum


Only woman, as a fighter, to receive a U.S. pension: special Act of Congress, 1884. Marcum home in Tenn., a depot for southerners going north to Union army. She lost eye; badly wounded defending home against marauders; then the family came here. Unionist father killed in action. Her life devoted to patriotic, religious work. Died in 1936, age 91, military funeral.

Dedicated May 22, 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
The famous horse race, the Kentucky Derby, has been held annually at Churchill Downs in Louisville since 1875.
Kentucky random facts
Whitley County, Kentucky has a rich history that stretches back centuries. The area was originally home to Native American tribes such as the Cherokee and Shawnee. European explorers, including Daniel Boone, began to settle in the region in the late 18th century, leading to conflicts with the Native American population.

The county itself was established in 1818 and named after William Whitley, a prominent early settler and Kentucky militia officer. During the 19th century, Whitley County became known for its thriving coal industry. The discovery of coal deposits in the mid-1800s led to a boom in mining operations and attracted thousands of workers to the area. This industry played a significant role in shaping the county's economy and infrastructure.

In addition to coal mining, Whitley County also had a strong agricultural sector. Farmers cultivated crops such as tobacco, corn, and soybeans, contributing to the county's economic growth. The railroad that passed through the county further facilitated the transportation of goods and people, connecting Whitley County to other regions in Kentucky.

Over time, Whitley County has evolved from a primarily rural and industrial area to a more diversified economy. Today, the county is home to a mix of industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, education, and tourism. The natural beauty of the Cumberland Falls State Resort Park, which boasts the "Niagara of the South" waterfall, attracts visitors from near and far, adding to the county's appeal as a tourist destination.

Throughout its history, Whitley County has experienced various challenges and triumphs, but its resilience and adaptability have allowed it to thrive and evolve into the vibrant community it is today.

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

  • 1818: Whitley County is established as Kentucky's 69th county.
  • 1839: The town of Williamsburg is founded.
  • 1862: During the Civil War, Whitley County is divided between Union and Confederate sympathizers.
  • 1873: The first public school in Whitley County is established in Williamsburg.
  • 1894: A railroad is built through Whitley County, stimulating economic growth.
  • 1910: The Cumberland Falls State Resort Park is established, attracting tourists to the area.
  • 1928: Cumberland College (now University of the Cumberlands) is founded in Williamsburg.
  • 1972: The Daniel Boone National Forest is established, encompassing a large portion of Whitley County.
  • 1994: The Kentucky Splash Waterpark opens in Williamsburg.