War on the Big Sandy. On mission to dislodge CSA from area, Colonel James A. Garfield's troops reached Paintsville on Jan. 6, 1862. Under threat of USA flank movement on left and rear, Gen. Humphrey Marshall abandoned his strong breastworks here at Hager Hill. Moving to Middle Creek he was overtaken on Jan. 10 by large USA force. After engagement Marshall retreated to Virginia. Installed April 13, 1964. For more information, see ExploreKYHistory: War on the Big Sandy