Historical Marker

Forrest Reconnoitered


Returning from reconnaissance and foraging mission to Ohio River, CSA Gen. Nathan Bedford Forrest with cavalry here Dec. 1, 1861, learned of threats to and arrests of Southern sympathizers. While capturing a few instigators, regimental Surgeon S. M. VanWyck was killed. Forrest stayed here another day before returning to Hopkinsville. See map other side.

Erected in 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 Nathan Bedford Forrest
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.
Kentucky random facts
Crittenden County, Kentucky, located in the western part of the state, has a rich history dating back to its establishment in 1842. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Chickasaw and Shawnee nations. European settlement began in the late 18th century, with early pioneers attracted to the fertile lands along the Ohio and Tradewater Rivers.

The county was named after John J. Crittenden, a prominent statesman from Kentucky who served as both Attorney General and Secretary of State under different U.S. presidents. It was officially established in 1842, carved out of neighboring Livingston County. Agriculture, particularly tobacco farming, played a significant role in the county's early economy.

During the Civil War, Crittenden County was a strategic location due to its proximity to the Ohio River and its abundant agricultural resources. The area was heavily divided, with some residents supporting the Union and others sympathetic to the Confederacy. The county experienced numerous skirmishes and raids throughout the war, causing significant disruptions and challenges for its inhabitants.

In the years following the Civil War, Crittenden County faced economic struggles as agriculture prices fluctuated and infrastructure development lagged behind neighboring regions. However, in the 20th century, the construction of dams along the Ohio River brought about economic growth, providing hydroelectric power and attracting industry to the area. Today, Crittenden County continues to be a rural community with a focus on agriculture, while also embracing tourism and outdoor recreational activities along the river.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Crittenden County, Kentucky.

  • 1825: Crittenden County is officially established.
  • 1830: The county is named after John J. Crittenden, a senator from Kentucky.
  • 1843: The county seat is established in Marion, Kentucky.
  • 1850s: Coal mining becomes an important industry in Crittenden County.
  • 1861-1865: Crittenden County residents serve in the Civil War.
  • 1873: The Ohio River flood devastates the county.
  • 1936: The Smithland Lock and Dam is completed on the Ohio River.
  • 1966: The Kincaid State Fish and Wildlife Area is established.
  • 1973: Crittenden County Historical Society is founded.
  • 1982: The 10,000-acre Crittenden County State Natural Area is established.