Historical Marker

CSA at Paris, 1862


Gen. John Hunt Morgan's cavalry on first Kentucky raid after its Cynthiana victory came to Paris, July 18, 1862. Citizens group had held out for days but surrendered. Warned of Union force nearby, CSA escaped pursuit, returned to Tenn. Paris occupied, Sept. 1862, during Confederate threat north. Capital at Frankfort, Georgetown, Lexington also held. See map over

  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.

Capitals Civil War John Hunt Morgan
Audiobooks about the history of Kentucky.
The famous horse race, the Kentucky Derby, has been held annually at Churchill Downs in Louisville since 1875.
Kentucky random facts
Bourbon County, Kentucky has a rich and storied history that dates back to the late 18th century. Established in 1786, it was named after the French royal family, the House of Bourbon, to honor their support during the American Revolution. The county quickly became known for its fertile soil, ideal for growing crops, especially corn and tobacco.

In the early 19th century, Bourbon County was a major producer of bourbon whiskey, which became its claim to fame. The county's abundance of limestone-filtered water, high-quality grains, and skilled distillers led to the creation of renowned bourbon brands. The bourbon industry flourished, and Bourbon County became known as the "Bourbon Capital of the World."

During the Civil War, Bourbon County, like many other parts of Kentucky, experienced divisions between Union and Confederate sympathizers. The county was occupied by both sides at various times, and there were skirmishes and conflicts between local militias and opposing forces. Despite this turmoil, the bourbon industry remained a vital part of the county's economy.

In more recent times, Bourbon County has continued to embrace its bourbon legacy while diversifying its agricultural and industrial sectors. The county has seen growth in thoroughbred horse farms, with many prestigious operations located within its borders. The county has also attracted industries such as manufacturing, technology, and logistics.

Today, Bourbon County remains an important center for agriculture, with its scenic landscapes and horse farms contributing to its charm. Its rich history, coupled with its economic development efforts, have made it a thriving community that honors its bourbon heritage while embracing new opportunities for growth and progress.

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

  • 1774 - Bourbon County is established as one of the original three counties in Kentucky.
  • 1785 - The town of Paris is founded in Bourbon County.
  • 1791 - Bourbon County becomes the leading producer of whiskey in the United States.
  • 1800 - The first recorded bourbon whiskey is produced in Bourbon County.
  • 1821 - The county seat is moved from Paris to Millersburg.
  • 1838 - The county seat is moved back to Paris.
  • 1862-1865 - Bourbon County supports the Union during the American Civil War.
  • 1908 - The first Bourbon County Fair is held in Paris.
  • 1937 - The bourbon industry in the county is negatively impacted by Prohibition and the Great Depression.
  • 1998 - The first Bourbon Festival takes place in Bardstown, nearby Bourbon County.