Historical Marker

Civil War Armory

Historical marker location:
6261 Wentworth Springs Road, Georgetown, California
( Marker is on Lower Main Street (aka Wentworth Springs Road) north of Georgetown Road (California Highway 193), on the right when traveling south.)
Marker installed: 1976

  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.

The first European to set foot in California was Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo, a Portuguese explorer sailing for the Spanish crown. He arrived in what is now San Diego Bay in 1542 and explored the coast for several months.
California random facts
El Dorado County, located in Northern California, has a rich and diverse history that stretches back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Nisenan, Miwok, and Maidu peoples, who thrived in the region's abundant natural resources.

The arrival of European settlers in the 1840s brought significant changes to the area. James W. Marshall's discovery of gold at Sutter's Mill in 1848 triggered the California Gold Rush, and El Dorado County quickly became a popular destination for prospectors. Towns like Coloma sprung up practically overnight, as thousands rushed to find their fortunes in the gold fields.

As the Gold Rush waned, El Dorado County still played a crucial role in California's history. The area became known for its rich agricultural lands and scenic beauty, attracting settlers who sought to establish themselves as ranchers and farmers. The California Trail, a major passage for pioneers migrating westward, also ran through the county during this time.

In the 20th century, El Dorado County saw continued growth and development. The county's natural beauty and proximity to the state capital, Sacramento, made it an attractive location for residential and recreational opportunities. Today, El Dorado County is a vibrant community that blends its historical charm with modern amenities, drawing in both locals and visitors alike.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of El Dorado County, California.

  • 1848: Gold is discovered in Coloma, leading to the California Gold Rush.
  • 1850: El Dorado County is established on February 18 as one of California's original 27 counties.
  • 1851: Diamond Springs becomes the county seat.
  • 1854: Placerville becomes the county seat, a position it holds to this day.
  • 1856: The El Dorado County Courthouse is constructed in Placerville.
  • 1864: Folsom State Prison opens, providing employment opportunities for residents.
  • 1876: The Central Pacific Railroad reaches El Dorado County, boosting economic development.
  • 1888: The Southern Pacific Railroad extends its line to Placerville.
  • 1901: The El Dorado County Chamber of Commerce is established.
  • 1928: The El Dorado County Historical Society is founded to preserve the county's heritage.
  • 1955: The El Dorado National Forest is established.
  • 1961: Lake Tahoe becomes a major tourist destination for the county.