Historical Marker

On Civil War Routes


CSA Gen. John H. Morgan's cavalry moved thru Springfield on raids, July 12 and December 30, 1862. On third raid, into Ohio, after battle of Lebanon, July 5, 1863, Union prisoners brought here but paroled to speed CSA movement. Confederate invasion force of 16,000 here before meeting Union Army in battle at Perryville, Oct. 8, 1862. other side.

Erected in 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.

Civil War John Hunt Morgan Battle of Perryville
The first bourbon whiskey was distilled in Kentucky in the late 18th century. Today, Kentucky is known for its bourbon production and is home to many famous bourbon distilleries.
Kentucky random facts
Washington County, KY has a rich and diverse history that stretches back several centuries. Established in 1792, it was named in honor of George Washington, the first President of the United States. The area was initially inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Cherokee and Shawnee nations. The first European settlers arrived in the late 18th century, primarily from Virginia and Maryland, and began to establish farms and settlements.

Washington County played a significant role in the frontier history of Kentucky. During the American Revolutionary War, it was a strategic location and saw several skirmishes between Native American tribes and settlers. The Battle of the Cornstalk Gristmill, fought in 1780, was a notable conflict in the area. As the frontier expanded and more settlers arrived, the county grew and prospered.

In the early 19th century, Washington County experienced a period of significant growth and development. The county seat, Springfield, was established in 1793 and became the center of social and economic activity in the area. Agriculture, particularly tobacco farming, was a major industry, and the county became known for its high-quality crops. The construction of roads and the arrival of the Louisville and Nashville Railroad in the mid-19th century further stimulated trade and transportation in the region.

In the 20th century, Washington County faced both challenges and opportunities. The decline of tobacco farming impacted the local economy, but new industries emerged, such as dairy farming and limestone quarrying. The community has also worked to preserve its historical landmarks and promote tourism. Today, Washington County is a vibrant and welcoming community, proud of its heritage and focused on the future.

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

  • 1780s: Settlement begins in the area that would become Washington County as pioneers move westward in Kentucky.
  • 1792: Washington County is officially established as one of the first three counties in Kentucky.
  • 1793: Springfield is designated as the county seat of Washington County.
  • 1800s: The population of Washington County grows as more settlers arrive and establish farms in the area.
  • 1861-1865: During the American Civil War, Washington County sees military action and experiences the impact of the conflict.
  • Early 20th century: Washington County continues to be primarily an agricultural community with tobacco being the main cash crop.
  • 1937: The Great Flood of 1937 devastates Washington County, causing significant damage and loss of life.
  • Late 20th century: Washington County experiences changes in its economy, with a decline in agriculture and an increase in tourism.
  • Present: Washington County remains a rural county known for its historic sites and natural beauty.