Historical Marker

Kaiser Burnout

Marker installed: 1970
Marker size: 20" x 20"

(3.3 miles south) Sizable area of Big Thicket gutted by fire during Civil War. Created (1865) when Confederate militia under Capt. James Kaiser burned trees and brush to drive out hiding "Jayhawkers" (name of unknown origin then applied to anti-war draft dodgers). Most escaped, but land still bears scars from fire. (1970)

  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.

As one of the most visible programs of the Texas Historical Commission (THC), historical markers commemorate diverse topics in Texas history, including: the history and architecture of houses, commercial and public buildings, religious congregations, and military sites; events that changed the course of local and state history; and individuals who have made lasting contributions to the state, community organizations, and businesses.

Civil War military topics
The Battle of San Jacinto fought on April 21, 1836, was the decisive battle of the Texas Revolution, and led to the capture of Santa Anna and the end of the conflict.
Texas random facts
Hardin County, located in the southeastern part of Texas, has a rich history dating back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, such as the Atakapa and the Caddo. European explorers, including the famous Spanish explorer Alonso de Leon, arrived in the 17th century, leading to increased contact with the indigenous populations.

During the early 19th century, the region was part of Mexico. However, after Texas became an independent republic in 1836, Hardin County was officially established in 1858 and named after the leader of the Battle of New Orleans, William Hardin.

The county experienced significant growth and development during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. One of the most important events in Hardin County's history was the discovery of oil in 1902, leading to an economic boom. Oil wells were drilled, refineries were established, and the local economy flourished.

Hardin County also played a role in World War II, as the area was home to Camp Hardin, a military training camp. The county's population surged during this time, as soldiers and their families moved into the area.

Today, Hardin County continues to be an important part of Texas' history and economy. It offers a mix of rural and suburban areas, with agriculture and oil production remaining vital industries. The county is proud of its heritage, with several historical landmarks and museums, preserving its past for future generations.

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

  • 1832 - Hardin County was established on December 22, 1832, as a part of the Mexican state of Coahuila y Tejas.
  • 1836 - Texas gained independence from Mexico, and Hardin County became a part of the Republic of Texas.
  • 1858 - Hardin County was organized and officially recognized by the state of Texas on March 31, 1858.
  • 1870 - The town of Kountze was established as the county seat of Hardin County on December 13, 1870.
  • 1887 - The first railroad arrived in Hardin County, connecting Kountze with the rest of Texas and facilitating economic growth.
  • 1907 - A devastating hurricane, known as the "Great Hurricane of 1907", struck Hardin County and caused significant damage.
  • 1915 - The discovery of oil in the Sour Lake field led to an oil boom in Hardin County, attracting numerous oil companies.
  • 1942 - During World War II, Camp Hardin was established near Silsbee as a military training camp.
  • 1998 - Hurricane Ike made landfall in Hardin County, causing widespread destruction and flooding.
  • 2007 - The Hardin County Courthouse, built in 1959, was added to the National Register of Historic Places on September 12, 2007.