Civil War Army Base. USA post located here to protect Ohio River traffic. Became supply base and communication center for Union forces in the Big Sandy region. In winter 1861-62, troops under Col. J. A. Garfield, later 20th President U.S., drove CSA from area by victory at Middle Creek. Area cleared of CSA again in 1864 by USA Kentucky forces under Col. George W. Gallup. May 2, 1964.