Historical Marker

Samuel May House

Historical marker location:
Prestonsburg, Kentucky
( 117 N. Lake Dr., Old US 23 & US 460, Prestonsburg)

Built in 1817 by Samuel May, this is the oldest house in Prestonsburg. It was constructed of bricks manufactured at the site. The 350-acre farm, with its grist mill, was a recruitment and supply post for Confederates during Civil War. The house was restored in 1997 by the City of Prestonsburg and Friends of Samuel May House, Inc.

(Reverse) Samuel May (1783-1851) - Son of Revolutionary War veteran John May and Sarah Phillips May, Samuel settled in Prestonsburg around 1807. Commissioned to build county's first brick courthouse in 1818. Elected state senator in 1835, he proposed improving a critical road in eastern Ky., the Mt. Sterling-Pound Gap Rd. He died in California during gold rush

  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 Confederate Army Grist Mills Mills Revolutionary War Roads
Audiobooks about the history of Kentucky.
The largest non-nuclear explosion in US history occurred in 1958 in Fleming County, Kentucky, when a natural gas storage cavern exploded, killing several people and destroying nearby homes.
Kentucky random facts
Floyd County is located in eastern Kentucky, encompassing the Appalachian Mountains and the Big Sandy River. The region that would later become Floyd County was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Shawnee and Cherokee. European settlement began in the late 18th century when pioneers started to establish communities along the river valleys and the Kentucky Trace, an important pioneer route.

In 1799, Floyd County was established by the Virginia General Assembly, named in honor of Virginia governor John Floyd. The county initially included a vast territory that later became several other counties as the region developed. The early settlers in Floyd County relied on subsistence farming and hunting for their livelihoods. The county also became an important center for salt production, as numerous salt springs were discovered in the area.

During the Civil War, Floyd County witnessed its share of conflict. The region was divided in its loyalties, with some residents supporting the Union and others the Confederacy. Guerrilla warfare was prevalent, with both sides engaging in raids and attacks. In 1862, Confederate forces under General Humphrey Marshall clashed with Union troops at the Battle of Middle Creek, resulting in a Union victory. This battle was a significant moment in the county's history, as it helped secure eastern Kentucky for the Union cause.

In the early 20th century, the development of the coal industry brought significant changes to Floyd County. Coal mining became the primary economic driver, attracting large numbers of miners and their families to the area. However, the industry also brought labor disputes, environmental challenges, and economic fluctuations. Today, Floyd County is known for its rich coal heritage, beautiful natural landscapes, and a vibrant community that celebrates its history while striving for a prosperous future.

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

  • 1799: Floyd County is established as a county in Kentucky.
  • 1800: The first permanent settlement is established in the county.
  • 1803: The county's first courthouse is constructed.
  • 1807: Prestonsburg is officially established as the county seat.
  • 1861-1865: Floyd County residents actively participate in the American Civil War.
  • 1920s: The county experiences a boom in the coal mining industry.
  • 1984: The Big Sandy Community and Technical College is established in Floyd County.