Historical Marker

Skirmish at Rolling Fork


Advancing Federals fired on Confederate troops led by Gen. John Hunt Morgan on December 29, 1862, during a rear-guard action. Acquaintances Col. John Harlan and Col. Basil Duke fought on opposing sides. Wounded during the clash, Duke recuperated at Bardstown.

(Reverse) After the Civil War, Col. Harlan became a U.S. Supreme Court Justice & was known as the “Great Dissenter” for his persistent judicial opposition, including that against the “separate but equal” principle of segregation. Duke recovered from his wounds and became a lawyer & lobbyist for the L&N Railroad that he helped destroy during the war.

Kentucky was the site of many important battles during the American Civil War, including the Battle of Perryville, which was the largest battle fought in the state.