Historical Marker

General Adam R. Johnson

Historical marker location:
Burnet, Texas
( SE corner of Courthouse Square, Burnet)
Marker installed: 1963
Marker size: Subject Marker

Star and Wreath

Home County of Texas Confederate

Joined C. S. Army 1861. Cavalry scout with Gen. Nathan B. Forest 1861-62. Commanded Partisan Rangers 1862-64 executing daring exploits behind enemy lines in Kentucky area. Took Newburgh, Indiana with 12 men and stovepipe "cannon". Promoted brigadier general June 1864. Escaped from Federal trap on Buffington's Island by swimming Ohio River with some of command. Blinded by gunshot wound and captured August 1864. Exchanged spring 1865.

A memorial to Texas who served the Confederacy; erected by the Stat eof Texas 1963.

(1834-1922)

Born Kentucky. Came to Burnet County, Texas, 1854. Overland Mail stage driver, surveyor, noted frontier Indian fighter. Although totally blind for life as result of war wounds he became prominent postwar Texas citizen. Founded Texas Mining Improvement Company, contracted for Overland Mail service, promoted development of water power on Colorado River. Founded the town of Marble Falls. During the bloodless Coke-Davis Controversy of 1874 marking the end of Davis' radical reconstruction rule Johnson went to the Capitol and posted himself atop the stairs with his old army six-shooter to fire down into the basement at the Davis forces if necessary, but Coke gained the governor's office without armed conflict

  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.

As one of the most visible programs of the Texas Historical Commission (THC), historical markers commemorate diverse topics in Texas history, including: the history and architecture of houses, commercial and public buildings, religious congregations, and military sites; events that changed the course of local and state history; and individuals who have made lasting contributions to the state, community organizations, and businesses.

Civil War military topics
Audiobooks about the history of Texas.
The Johnson Space Center, located in Houston, played a crucial role in the development of the U.S. space program. It was here that NASA trained its astronauts and mission control teams, and it continues to be an important center for space research and exploration today.
Texas random facts
Burnet County, TX is located in the heart of the Texas Hill Country and has a rich history that spans centuries. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Tonkawa and Lipan Apache. In the 1830s, European settlers began to arrive in the region, and in 1846, Burnet County was officially established by the Texas legislature.

During the mid-1800s, the county played a significant role in the development of Texas. It served as a route for settlers heading west to other regions and became a popular stop for travelers. The town of Burnet, the county seat, grew steadily and became a center for trade and commerce.

In the late 19th century, Burnet County experienced a boom when the railroad reached the area in 1882. This new mode of transportation brought an influx of people and helped to stimulate economic growth. Agriculture, particularly the production of cotton, flourished during this time. The county also saw the establishment of various businesses, schools, and churches.

In the 20th century, Burnet County continued to evolve. It became known for its scenic beauty and recreational opportunities, attracting visitors from all over. The area also played a role in World War II, as Camp Bowie, a military training facility, was built in the county. Today, Burnet County remains a vibrant community with a mix of historical significance and natural beauty, offering residents and visitors a unique experience.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Burnet County, Texas.

  • 1848: Burnet County is established by the Texas legislature and named after David G. Burnet, the first president of the Republic of Texas.
  • 1852: The first permanent settler, Reuben Hornsby, arrives in the area.
  • 1854: The town of Burnet is designated as the county seat.
  • 1861-1865: Burnet County residents serve in the Confederate Army during the American Civil War.
  • 1870: The population of Burnet County reaches over 2,000.
  • 1873: The Austin and Northwestern Railroad is completed, connecting Burnet County to other parts of Texas.
  • 1882: The Texas Legislature establishes the first marble quarry in Marble Falls, bringing economic growth to the county.
  • 1937: Lake Buchanan is completed, becoming the first of several reservoirs built in Burnet County to provide water and hydroelectric power.
  • 1984: The Highland Lakes chain, a series of six reservoirs including Lake Buchanan, becomes a major tourist attraction in Burnet County.
  • 2008: The historic Burnet County Courthouse, built in 1884, is restored and reopened to the public.