Historical Marker

Morgan-on to Ohio


July 2, 1863, CSA Gen. John Hunt Morgan crossed Cumberland River near here, brushing aside Union patrols on north bank. Morgan placed some troops in ambush one mile from here and drove Union forces back to camp at Marrowbone. Morgan crossed Kentucky, invading Indiana and on into Northeastern Ohio, where he surrendered July 26. He was imprisoned at Columbus, Ohio.

Dedicated in the autumn of 1962

  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 John Hunt Morgan
Audiobooks about the history of Kentucky.
The word "Kentucky" is derived from the Native American word "ken-tah-ten," which means "land of tomorrow."
Kentucky random facts
Cumberland County, Kentucky, located in the south-central part of the state, has a rich and diverse history that spans several centuries. The area was initially inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Cherokee, Shawnee, and Chickasaw, who relied on the land's resources for sustenance and trade. European exploration in the late 18th century brought about significant changes as settlers began to establish permanent settlements.

The county's official formation took place in 1798 when the state legislature divided the land from neighboring Green County. The county was named after the Cumberland River, which runs through the area, and whose name was inspired by the Duke of Cumberland, brother of King George III of England. In the early years, the region was primarily agricultural, relying on crops such as tobacco and corn, as well as livestock farming.

During the Civil War, Cumberland County found itself experiencing the consequences of the conflict. While officially remaining loyal to the Union, the county was geographically located near the Confederate stronghold of Tennessee. Both armies traversed the area, resulting in looting, destruction of property, and disruption of daily life for its residents.

In the 20th century, Cumberland County saw increased industrialization and infrastructure development. The construction of Dale Hollow Dam on the Cumberland River in the 1940s brought economic growth and provided a source of hydroelectric power to the region. The lake created by the dam also became a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors for boating, fishing, and camping.

Today, Cumberland County continues to be a predominantly rural community. Agriculture still plays a significant role in the local economy, alongside small-scale industries and tourism. The county's history and natural beauty contribute to its charm, with landmarks such as the historic courthouse and the scenic Cumberland River serving as reminders of its vibrant past.

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

  • 1838 - Cumberland County is established as a county in Kentucky.
  • Early 1800s - Native American tribes, including the Cherokee and Shawnee, inhabit the area.
  • Late 1700s - European settlers begin to arrive, primarily of Scots-Irish and English descent.
  • 1769 - Daniel Boone explores the region, opening up the Cumberland Gap as a route for westward expansion.
  • 1798 - The first land grants are issued in what is now Cumberland County.
  • 1825 - Burkesville is officially incorporated as the county seat.
  • 1861-1865 - Cumberland County, like much of the nation, is affected by the American Civil War. Many local men serve in the Confederate Army.
  • Late 1800s - Agriculture, primarily tobacco and corn farming, becomes the mainstay of the county's economy.
  • Early 1900s - Lumber and coal mining industries begin to flourish, providing new job opportunities in the area.
  • 1997 - Cumberland County celebrates its 150th anniversary.
  • Present - Cumberland County continues to be primarily rural, with a focus on agriculture, tourism, and small businesses.