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.) Courthouse at Hopkinsville burned Dec. 12. All county records saved. Commandeered clothing and went on. Returned on 16th, skirmished with US force and moved to Madisonville.

Installed February 19, 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 Courthouses Burned
The word "Kentucky" is derived from the Native American word "ken-tah-ten," which means "land of tomorrow."
Kentucky random facts
Christian County, Kentucky has a rich history that reflects the growth and development of the region. The area was originally home to the Cherokee and Chickasaw Native American tribes. In the late 18th century, however, European settlers began to arrive. The county was named after Colonel William Christian, a renowned soldier in the American Revolutionary War.

In the early 19th century, Christian County became an important agricultural hub with the introduction of crops such as tobacco, hemp, and grains. The fertile soil and abundant water sources attracted more settlers. The county's economy boomed as large plantations emerged, using slave labor to cultivate crops. The production of tobacco, in particular, became a major driver of the economy, leading to the county's nickname "Dark Tobacco Capital of the World."

During the American Civil War, Christian County witnessed significant conflict due to its strategic location, as it was situated on the border between the Union and Confederate territories. The Battle of Hopkinsville in December 1864 was one of the major engagements that occurred within the county, resulting in Union victory. Following the war, Christian County experienced a period of reconstruction and gradual recovery.

In the 20th century, Christian County thrived as its farming practices diversified. Agriculture remained vital, but other industries like manufacturing and services began to flourish. The county became home to Fort Campbell, a large military installation that played a critical role during World War II and continues to be an economic and cultural influence in the region. Today, Christian County is a vibrant community with a diverse economy, beautiful landscapes, and a strong sense of history and heritage.

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

  • Christian County, KY was established on December 13, 1796, as part of Logan County.
  • In 1800, the county was renamed Christian County in honor of Colonel William Christian, a Revolutionary War veteran.
  • During the War of 1812, Christian County played a major role as a recruitment center and training ground for soldiers.
  • In 1847, the county seat was established in Hopkinsville.
  • During the Civil War, Christian County was a border region and witnessed several military actions.
  • In 1892, the Christian County Courthouse was built and still stands today as a historic landmark.
  • In the early 20th century, agriculture, particularly tobacco farming, was a vital part of the county's economy.
  • Christian County experienced significant growth and development in the latter half of the 20th century.
  • In recent years, the county has focused on diversifying its economy, attracting industries and expanding healthcare services.