Historical Marker

Civi War Action


On mission to clear area of CSA forces, Col. Geo. W. Gallup with USA troops repulsed Confederate attack led by Lt. Colonel E. F. Clay at Paintsville April 13, 1864, and pursued enemy to this point. Union men attacked next day. Clay was mortally wounded: CSA suffered 60 casualties and 60 men, 200 horses, 400 saddles, 300 small-arms taken. USA sustained only slight losses.

Installed April 23, 1963

  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
The first successful gold rush in the United States occurred in 1806 in Kentucky. The gold was found in the sand and gravel of the Ohio River and its tributaries.
Kentucky random facts
Magoffin County, Kentucky has a rich and storied history that dates back to its formation in 1860, named after the distinguished politician and Governor, Beriah Magoffin. The county was originally part of Floyd County, but due to its growing population and distance from the county seat, it was decided to establish a separate county. The area has a strong Native American presence, with several tribes, including the Shawnee and Cherokee, hunting and trading in the region.

During the Civil War, Magoffin County faced divided loyalties, much like the rest of Kentucky. The county was mostly pro-Confederate, but there were also Union sympathizers. The conflict caused tensions and resulted in several skirmishes in the area. After the war, the county faced economic challenges, with the decline of the salt industry and limited transportation options, hindering its growth.

In the early 20th century, Magoffin County saw some progress with the establishment of schools, churches, and infrastructure. However, the county remained predominantly rural, relying on agriculture and timber as its main economic activities. The Great Depression hit the county hard, exacerbating an already struggling economy.

In recent years, Magoffin County has made efforts to diversify its economy and improve infrastructure. The county has focused on promoting tourism and outdoor activities, utilizing its natural beauty and Appalachian heritage. Additionally, various community development projects have aimed to improve education, healthcare, and infrastructure. Despite its challenges, Magoffin County continues to work towards a brighter future while cherishing its historical roots.

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

  • 1790s: Kentucky becomes a state
  • 1803: Magoffin County is established as part of Floyd County
  • 1843: Magoffin County is officially formed and named after Governor Beriah Magoffin
  • 1861-1865: Magoffin County experiences the American Civil War
  • 1893: First railroad line is completed in Magoffin County
  • 1930s: Magoffin County is greatly affected by the Great Depression
  • 1963: Magoffin County Public Library is established
  • 1967: The John C.C. Mayo Memorial Library is built
  • 2004: Magoffin County is hit by a devastating flood
  • 2012: The Magoffin County Historical Society is established