Historical Marker

Forrest Reconnoitered


CSA General Nathan Bedford Forrest, on reconnaissance and foraging mission toward the Ohio River Nov. 24 to Dec. 5, 1861, passed here with 300 cavalry on way to Caseyville. There he found large supply of hogs and took some along. After he left, USA picked up remainder. While returning to Hopkinsville Forrest captured horses, cattle and more hogs. Map on other side.

Installed July 30, 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 Nathan Bedford Forrest
Kentucky was originally part of Virginia and was known as the "Kentucky County" until it became a separate state in 1792.
Kentucky random facts
Webster County, Kentucky has a rich and storied history that dates back to the early 1800s. The area was originally home to several Native American tribes, including the Shawnee and Cherokee, until European settlers arrived in the late 18th century. In 1806, the county was officially established and named after Daniel Webster, a prominent American statesman and orator.

During the early years of its history, Webster County was primarily a rural and agricultural community. The fertile soil and abundant natural resources attracted settlers from all over, leading to the establishment of numerous farming communities throughout the county. The agricultural industry thrived, with tobacco, corn, and wheat as the main crops. The county also had timber reserves, which were used for building and trade.

In the mid-19th century, the construction of railroads played a significant role in the development of Webster County. The first railroad arrived in the late 1850s, linking the county to other major cities and facilitating transportation of goods. This led to an increase in industrialization, with coal mining becoming a major economic driver in the county. The mining industry boomed, bringing economic prosperity to the area and attracting a diverse workforce.

Webster County faced its fair share of challenges as well. The county was deeply affected by the Civil War, with local conflicts and troop movements impacting the community. After the war, the region faced a period of post-war reconstruction but managed to rebuild and adapt to the changing times. In the 20th century, the county continued its reliance on agriculture and coal mining, while also diversifying its economy with the establishment of manufacturing industries.

Today, Webster County remains a lively and vibrant community in Kentucky. The area combines its agricultural heritage with modern industries, offering a blend of quaint rural charm and economic opportunities for its residents. The county takes pride in its history, and many historic sites, museums, and events celebrate the rich heritage and contributions of the people who shaped Webster County over the years.

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

  • 1806: Webster County was established by the Kentucky General Assembly.
  • 1807: The county was named after Daniel Webster, an American statesman and politician.
  • 1829: The community of Dixon was incorporated.
  • 1833: The first courthouse was built in Dixon.
  • 1861-1865: Webster County residents served in the American Civil War.
  • 1885: The current Webster County Courthouse was constructed.
  • 1937: The Dixon tornado struck, causing significant damage to the area.
  • 1974: The county celebrated its sesquicentennial.
  • 1983: The Webster County Coal Corporation opened a coal mine in Providence.
  • 2004: The county celebrated its bicentennial.
  • 2010: The population of Webster County was 13,621.
  • 2019: Webster County celebrated its 213th anniversary.