Historical Marker

Louisa in Civil War


River traffic caused Union forces under Gen. James A. Garfield, 20th U.S. President, to occupy Louisa Dec. 1861. CSA troops attempted capture March 12 and 25-26, 1863. Southern partisans raided area Nov. 5, 1864, burning houses and 2 steamers, and looting stores. Fort Bishop, USA, completed here just as war ended in 1865. Also called Fort Gallup and Fort Hill.

Erected October 4, 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 Forts and Stations James A. Garfield
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Lawrence County, Kentucky has a rich and diverse history that dates back to the early 1800s. The county was established in 1822 and was named after James Lawrence, a naval officer who famously declared, "Don't give up the ship!" during the War of 1812.

The area that is now Lawrence County was initially inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Shawnee and Cherokee. European settlers began arriving in the late 1700s, bringing with them agriculture and industry. Coal mining became one of the county's major economic activities in the 19th and early 20th centuries, attracting an influx of workers from nearby counties and states.

The county played a significant role in the Civil War, with many residents joining the Union Army. The Battle of Middle Creek, fought in 1862, took place in Lawrence County and is considered one of the most important engagements in Kentucky during the war. After the conflict, the county experienced a period of growth and development as new industries, such as timber and oil, were established.

Lawrence County has also been home to notable individuals throughout its history. One of the most renowned is Jenny Wiley, who was captured by Native Americans in 1789 and held captive for over a year. Her courageous escape and subsequent settlement in what is now Lawrence County became the stuff of legend, inspiring books, plays, and even a state park in her honor.

Today, Lawrence County remains a predominantly rural area with a strong sense of community and a deep appreciation for its heritage. While the economy has shifted away from coal mining, the county's natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities continue to attract visitors. Lawrence County's history serves as a reminder of the resilience and determination of its residents, shaping the county into what it is today.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Lawrence County, Kentucky.

  • 1796: Lawrence County is established, named after Captain James Lawrence.
  • 1801: The first courthouse is built in the county.
  • 1827: The town of Louisa is founded as the county seat.
  • 1861-1865: Lawrence County residents participate in the American Civil War.
  • 1870s: The timber industry becomes a major economic driver in the county.
  • 1897: The first coal mine opens in Lawrence County.
  • 1913: A devastating flood hits the county, causing significant damage.
  • 1940s: The construction of the East Kentucky Power Cooperative's Yatesville Dam begins.
  • 1980s: The coal industry experiences a decline, leading to economic challenges in the county.
  • 2003: The Lawrence County Historical Society is established to preserve the county's history.