Historical Marker

Courthouse Burned


Gen. Hylan B. Lyon with 800 men invaded Ky., Dec. 1864, to enforce CSA draft law and divert USA from Nashville. In 23 days he burned seven courthouses used by Union forces. (See map on reverse side.) US troops fled Princeton as Lyon came from Eddyville. Courthouse burned on December 15. Records saved. Next day, Lyon stopped US force, then moved toward Madisonville.

Originally erected in 1963, text updated to reflect survival of records and reinstalled in 1965

  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 Courthouses Burned
The town of Elizabethtown, Kentucky, was the birthplace of Colonel Harland Sanders, the founder of Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC).
Kentucky random facts
Caldwell County, located in southwestern Kentucky, has a rich history dating back to its establishment in 1809. Originally inhabited by Native American tribes, the area was first explored by European settlers in the late 18th century. By the early 19th century, the region saw an influx of settlers, primarily from Virginia and North Carolina, who were drawn to the fertile land and abundant resources.

During the early years of Caldwell County, agriculture played a significant role in its economy. The fertile soil proved ideal for cultivating crops such as tobacco, corn, and wheat. As a result, plantations and farms flourished, and the county became known for its agricultural productivity. The county seat, Princeton, was established in 1820 and named after a prominent Revolutionary War figure, Colonel William Prince.

The 19th century brought significant changes to Caldwell County. With the rise of the steamboat industry, the Cumberland and Tennessee Rivers became major transportation corridors, providing opportunities for trade and commerce. This led to the growth of towns such as Eddyville and Fredonia, which served as essential trading centers for local goods.

During the Civil War, Caldwell County found itself divided. As a border state, Kentucky was torn between Union and Confederate loyalties. The county experienced skirmishes and tensions between opposing factions, leaving a lasting impact on the community. After the war, Caldwell County slowly rebuilt its economy, transitioning from a primarily agricultural-based economy to a more diversified one, incorporating manufacturing and other industries.

Today, Caldwell County retains its agricultural heritage, with farming remaining an essential part of the local economy. It is also home to natural attractions such as the Pennyrile State Forest and Lake Barkley, which draw visitors from near and far. With a blend of historical significance and natural beauty, Caldwell County continues to thrive and preserve its unique heritage.

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

  • 1784 - Caldwell County is created as part of Christian County
  • 1812 - Caldwell County is officially established as a separate county
  • 1820 - Princeton is named the county seat of Caldwell County
  • 1837 - The community of Eddyville is incorporated
  • 1861-1865 - Caldwell County residents serve in the Civil War on both sides
  • 1882 - The Kentucky State Penitentiary is constructed in Eddyville
  • 1922 - The first oil wells are drilled in Caldwell County, leading to an oil boom
  • 1937 - The historic Smithland Lock and Dam on the Cumberland River is completed
  • 1950s - The construction of the Barkley Dam creates Lake Barkley, attracting tourism
  • 1997 - A tornado causes significant damage in Caldwell County