Historical Marker

Morgan's Last Raid


On tragic last Kentucky raid, CSA Gen. John H. Morgan and Raiders entered state June 1, 1864, took Mt. Sterling June 8, lost it on 9th, took Lexington on l0th, and Cynthiana on 11th. USA under General S. G. Burbridge defeated CSA next day. Morgan retreated through here, reaching Virginia June 20. See map on other side. Raiders never recovered from this reverse.

Dedicated June 1, 1964

  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.

Stephen G. Burbridge Civil War Battle of Cynthiana Lexington John Hunt Morgan Mt. Sterling
Audiobooks about the history of Kentucky.
The town of Elizabethtown, Kentucky, was the birthplace of Colonel Harland Sanders, the founder of Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC).
Kentucky random facts
Pike County, Kentucky, situated in the Appalachian region of the United States, has a rich and diverse history. The county was established in 1822 and named after Zebulon Pike, an explorer who is best known for leading an expedition to the southern portion of the Louisiana Territory. This area was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Cherokee, Shawnee, and Delaware.

In the 19th century, Pike County experienced a boom in both population and industry, largely due to the discovery of vast coal reserves. With the development of the railroad system, coal mining became the dominant industry in the area. This led to an influx of workers and immigrants, particularly from Eastern Europe, who sought employment in the mines. Pike County soon became one of the major coal-producing regions in the United States.

The coal industry not only shaped the economy of Pike County but also played a significant role in its social and cultural fabric. The county saw the rise of labor unions, such as the United Mine Workers of America, which fought for better working conditions and fair wages for miners. The struggle for workers' rights often led to conflicts and labor disputes, including the famous Pike County Coal Wars in the early 20th century.

In recent years, the decline of the coal industry has presented new challenges and opportunities for Pike County. Efforts are being made to diversify the economy and attract alternative industries, such as tourism and technology. The county is also home to a number of natural attractions, including the Breaks Interstate Park and the Appalachian Wildlife Center, which have the potential to attract visitors and boost the local economy. Despite the changes over time, Pike County continues to preserve its unique cultural heritage and serves as a reminder of the enduring spirit of its residents.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Pike County, Kentucky.

  • 1821: Pike County is established on December 19, becoming the 70th county in Kentucky.
  • 1823: The county seat is established in Pikeville.
  • 1850s: Development of the coal industry in Pike County begins, transforming the local economy.
  • 1861-1865: Pike County residents actively participate in the American Civil War, with many joining Confederate forces.
  • 1921: The Battle of Blair Mountain takes place near the Pike County border in West Virginia, as coal miners protest for better working conditions.
  • 1937: Pike County is severely affected by the Great Flood, leading to significant damage and loss of life.
  • 1950s-1960s: Pike County experiences a boom in coal production and population growth.
  • 1977: The Pikeville Cut-Through project is completed, carving a route for US Route 23 through a mountain ridge near Pikeville.
  • 1989: The Pike County Courthouse, dating back to 1891, is destroyed by a fire, leading to its subsequent reconstruction.
  • Late 20th century: Pike County faces economic challenges as the decline of the coal industry affects the region.
  • Present: Pike County continues to work towards diversifying its economy while preserving its rich history and natural resources.