Civil War Action
On March 23, 1864, two days before the Battle of Paducah, detached forces of Confederate General Nathan B. Forrest's cavalry coming up from Columbus, Miss., and Union troops, both searching for horses, met by accident near here. In two skirmishes which took place, three were killed in first engagement and four in the second. Burial was in the old Gilbert cemetery.
Erected in 1962
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.
In the early 1800s, settlers began to establish permanent homes in the region. Marshall County was formally created in 1842, named after Chief Justice John Marshall. The county's fertile land and proximity to the Tennessee River contributed to its early agricultural success, with farming becoming a cornerstone of its economy. The river also played a crucial role in transportation and trade, leading to the development of towns and communities along its banks.
During the Civil War, Marshall County, like many other parts of Kentucky, experienced a divided loyalty between the Union and the Confederacy. The county saw several skirmishes and raids, leaving a lasting impact on its residents. Following the war, Marshall County gradually transitioned from an agricultural to an industrial economy, as industries such as tobacco processing and coal mining emerged. The 20th century brought further development, with the growth of manufacturing and tourism.
In recent decades, Marshall County has become an attractive destination for tourists, thanks to its natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Kentucky Lake, one of the largest man-made lakes in the United States, has drawn visitors seeking fishing, boating, and other water-related activities. The county is also known for its historic sites, such as the Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park and the Marshall County Historic Courthouse. Today, Marshall County thrives as a vibrant community with a diverse economy, preserving its historical legacy while embracing modern advancements.
Marshall County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Marshall County, Kentucky.
- 1842: Marshall County is officially established.
- 1850s: The completion of the Kentucky Central Railroad helps boost the county's economy.
- 1860s: Marshall County citizens participate in the Civil War, with many joining the Union Army.
- 1873: The construction of Kentucky Dam begins, eventually leading to the formation of Kentucky Lake.
- 1950s: The land around Kentucky Lake becomes a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from neighboring states.
- 1966: Marshall County High School is established.
- 1997: The Heath High School shooting takes place, leading to discussions about gun control and school safety.