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

  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 John Hunt Morgan Mt. Sterling
Audiobooks about the history of Kentucky.
The city of Owensboro, Kentucky, is home to the International Bluegrass Music Museum, which honors the history and culture of bluegrass music.
Kentucky random facts
Robertson County, located in northeastern Kentucky, has a rich history dating back to its establishment in 1867. Prior to its official formation, the area was inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Shawnee and Cherokee. European settlers began moving into the region in the late 18th century, attracted by the fertile land and abundant natural resources.

The county was named after George Robertson, a prominent Kentucky politician and judge. Throughout its history, Robertson County has primarily been an agricultural community, with farming and livestock playing vital roles in the local economy. The early settlers relied on farming to sustain their livelihoods, growing crops such as tobacco, corn, and wheat.

In the 19th century, Robertson County saw growth and development with the construction of roads and the arrival of the railroad, which facilitated transportation and trade. The county's population continued to increase, and by the early 20th century, several small towns had emerged, including Mount Olivet, the county seat.

Robertson County also played a role in the Civil War, experiencing some military action and serving as a recruitment center for both Union and Confederate forces. Despite the conflicts of the time, the county rebounded and continued to develop, diversifying its economy and becoming known for its rural charm and friendly communities.

Today, Robertson County remains a predominantly rural area, with agriculture as an essential industry. The county's rich history is celebrated through various events and festivals, providing a glimpse into its past while embracing the strength and resilience of the community that has shaped Robertson County into what it is today.

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

  • 1777 - Robertson County was established as part of Kentucky County
  • 1780 - The county became part of Bourbon County
  • 1836 - Robertson County was formed as a separate county
  • 1853 - The county seat was established in Mount Olivet
  • 1861-1865 - Robertson County residents participated in the American Civil War
  • 1900s - Agriculture, particularly tobacco farming, became a major industry in the county
  • 1950s - The decline of the tobacco industry led to economic challenges in the county
  • Present - Robertson County continues to be a predominantly rural and agricultural community