Historical Marker

Civil War Army Base


USA post located here to protect Ohio River traffic. Became supply base and communication center for Union forces in the Big Sandy region. In winter 1861-62, troops under Col. J. A. Garfield, later 20th President U.S., drove CSA from area by victory at Middle Creek. Area cleared of CSA again in 1864 by USA Kentucky forces under Col. George W. Gallup.

May 2, 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 James A. Garfield
The word "Kentucky" is derived from the Native American word "ken-tah-ten," which means "land of tomorrow."
Kentucky random facts
Boyd County, located in northeastern Kentucky, has a rich history dating back to the early 19th century. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Shawnee and Cherokee, before European settlers arrived. In the late 1700s, explorers like Daniel Boone explored the region, increasing interest in its potential for settlement.

The county was officially established on December 24, 1860, and was named after Linn Boyd, a politician from Kentucky. Like many areas in Appalachia, Boyd County was predominantly rural and agriculturally focused in its early years. The fertile soil and abundant natural resources attracted settlers, who established small communities and farms throughout the area.

The discovery of natural gas and oil in the late 1800s brought significant economic growth to Boyd County. Companies like the Ashland Oil and Refining Company, now known as Marathon Petroleum Corporation, flourished, attracting workers from far and wide. This led to the expansion of towns like Ashland, the county seat, which became an important transportation and industrial center.

Throughout the 20th century, Boyd County continued to thrive and diversify its economy. The construction of the Bluegrass Army Depot during World War II brought jobs and stability to the region. In recent decades, the county has embraced tourism, with attractions like the Highlands Museum and Discovery Center and the Paramount Arts Center drawing visitors from across the state.

Today, Boyd County remains a vibrant and dynamic community, blending its rich history with a focus on education, healthcare, and industry. The county is known for its strong sense of community, natural beauty, and commitment to preserving its heritage while embracing the future.

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

  • 1860 - Boyd County is established as a county in Kentucky
  • 1872 - Ashland, the county seat of Boyd County, is officially incorporated as a city
  • 1879 - The Chesapeake and Ohio Railway is completed through Boyd County, boosting the local economy
  • 1899 - The Ashland Iron & Mining Company is founded, becoming a significant employer in the region
  • 1937 - Famed country music singer and songwriter, Billy Ray Cyrus, is born in Flatwoods, Boyd County
  • 1954 - The Ashland Oil Refinery is established, becoming one of the region's largest employers
  • 1968 - The Ohio River flood devastates Boyd County and surrounding areas
  • 1992 - The Paramount Arts Center, a historic theater in Ashland, celebrates its centennial anniversary