Historical Marker

Battle of Irvine


Only Civil War battle in this area. Col. John S. Scott, CSA, and troops arrived here July 30, 1863, with plan to capture 14th Ky. Cavalry. Held Irvine only a few hours. Col. W. P. Sanders, USA, and his force pursued Scott, capturing some of rear guard. Col. Scott's troops crossed river at Irvine but fought with Col. Sanders' men from other side. Scott soon departed

  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
Audiobooks about the history of Kentucky.
The famous African-American author and poet, Langston Hughes, spent much of his childhood in Lexington, Kentucky.
Kentucky random facts
Estill County, located in eastern Kentucky, has a rich history that dates back to prehistoric times. The area was first inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Shawnee and Cherokee, who hunted and fished along the Kentucky River. European settlers began arriving in the late 18th century, mainly from Virginia and North Carolina, establishing forts and settlements in what is now Estill County.

One prominent figure in the county's history is Captain James Estill, for whom the county is named. Estill was a surveyor and soldier who played a key role in defending the region during conflicts with Native American tribes. In 1782, he was killed in a battle known as the Battle of Little Mountain, a significant event in the county's history.

In the 19th century, Estill County experienced growth and development, with the establishment of iron furnaces, gristmills, and sawmills. The construction of roads and the arrival of the railroad further contributed to the county's progress. Agriculture, particularly tobacco and livestock farming, became an important industry in the region.

Estill County has had its fair share of challenges as well. The Great Depression of the 1930s brought economic hardship, and the construction of the Kentucky River Lock and Dam No. 11 flooded parts of the county, leading to the relocation of residents. However, the community has shown resilience and continues to thrive.

Today, Estill County embraces its history and natural beauty, with opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and fishing. The county also celebrates its heritage through various events and festivals, showcasing the diverse culture and traditions of its residents.

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

  • 1808 - Estill County is established by the Kentucky General Assembly.
  • 1815 - The first courthouse is built in Irvine, the county seat.
  • 1828 - Construction of the Old Town Springs Hotel begins.
  • 1851 - The first public school opens in Irvine.
  • 1863 - Confederate general John Hunt Morgan and his troops pass through Estill County during the Civil War.
  • 1893 - The Episcopal Church is built in Irvine.
  • 1926 - The Kentucky River floods, causing significant damage to the county.
  • 1937 - The Works Progress Administration constructs the Estill Springs Hospital for tuberculosis patients.
  • 1960 - Ravenna High School is integrated, marking an important step in desegregation.
  • 1983 - The county's first industrial park is established in Irvine.
  • 2010 - Estill County celebrates its bicentennial.