Historical Marker

Camp Wildcat


Led by Gen. Felix K. Zollicoffer, 7,500 Confederates on October 21, 1861, attacked the entrenched camp of 5,000 Union men under Gen. Albin Schoepf. Union's natural defense advantage in the Rockcastle Hills stopped the Southern troops, who retreated to Tenn. This was major battle during 4 days of skirmishes, attacks, and heavy gunfire. Presented by Laurel County Bicentennial Commission and Forest Service, USDA.

Reverse
Union Civil War Camp - The Camp Wildcat position was considered crucial for each side. Union forces camped two miles north of here to prevent Confederate attack into the Bluegrass region of Kentucky. Confederates wanted to prevent Union advance into eastern Tennessee, where many citizens remained loyal to the Union. Presented by Laurel County Bicentennial Commission and Forest Service, USDA

  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.

Camps Civil War
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
Laurel County, located in the southeastern part of Kentucky, has a rich history dating back to the early 19th century. The county was officially established in 1825, named after either the mountain laurel shrubs that were prevalent in the area or after the fact that laurel leaves were traditionally used to crown victors in ancient Greek mythology.

In its early years, Laurel County was primarily inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Shawnee and Cherokee. However, European settlers began to arrive in the late 18th century, attracted by the fertile land and abundant natural resources. As more settlers arrived, several small communities were established, including London, the county seat.

One significant event in Laurel County's history is the Civil War. Though Kentucky was officially neutral during the war, both Union and Confederate sympathizers lived in the county. There were several clashes and skirmishes, with Union forces occupying London for a period of time. After the war, the county experienced economic growth, with the advent of railroad lines and the development of coal mining and timber industries.

Over the years, Laurel County has continued to grow and thrive. The county has been witness to numerous milestones, such as the establishment of schools, hospitals, and businesses. Today, it remains an important hub in southeastern Kentucky, with a diverse economy that includes industries like manufacturing, healthcare, and tourism. The county is also known for its beautiful natural landscapes, including the Daniel Boone National Forest, which attracts outdoor enthusiasts from far and wide.

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

  • 1806 - Laurel County is officially established as a county in the state of Kentucky.
  • 1861 - The American Civil War begins, and Laurel County becomes an important strategic location due to its proximity to Cumberland Gap.
  • 1862 - The Battle of Camp Wildcat takes place in Laurel County, marking a significant Union victory.
  • 1869 - The town of London is incorporated as the county seat of Laurel County.
  • 1890 - The first railroad, the Louisville & Nashville Railroad, is completed in Laurel County, encouraging economic growth and development.
  • 1926 - U.S. Route 25 is established, running through Laurel County and improving transportation in the area.
  • 1937 - Laurel River Lake is created as a result of the construction of Laurel River Dam, providing a reliable water source and recreational opportunities.
  • 1974 - A devastating tornado outbreak hits Laurel County, causing significant damage and loss of life.
  • 1992 - The Daniel Boone National Forest is expanded to include parts of Laurel County, preserving its natural beauty and promoting outdoor activities.
  • 2019 - Laurel County celebrates its 213th anniversary since its establishment.