Historical Marker

Myakka River Civil War Skirmish

Historical marker location:
El Jobean, Florida
( Marker is on Kerrigan Circle, 0.1 miles west of El Jobean Road (Florida Route 776), on the left when traveling south.)
Marker installed: 2013

  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 Florida Keys, a chain of islands off the southern coast of Florida, were once a notorious pirate haven. Many famous pirates, including Blackbeard and Captain Kidd, are said to have frequented the area.
Florida random facts
Charlotte County, located on the southwestern coast of Florida, has a rich and diverse history dating back thousands of years. The region was originally inhabited by the native Calusa people, who thrived in the area for centuries due to its abundant natural resources and access to the Gulf of Mexico. The Calusa developed a complex society and left behind a legacy of impressive shell mounds and artifacts.

In the early 16th century, Spanish explorers arrived in the area, led by Juan Ponce de León and Ferdinand Magellan. The Spanish claimed the region as part of their empire and established missions and forts in the area to convert the native population to Christianity and protect their interests. However, conflicts with the Calusa and other Native American tribes made it difficult for the Spanish to maintain a permanent presence in Charlotte County.

It wasn't until the 19th century that significant European settlement occurred in the area. In the mid-1800s, homesteaders from northern states began to migrate to the region, attracted by the fertile land and favorable climate. The small settlements of Punta Gorda and Englewood were established, and the area became known for its citrus groves and fishing industry.

In the 20th century, Charlotte County experienced rapid growth and development. The construction of the Tamiami Trail and the opening of the Peace River Bridge in the 1920s connected the county to nearby cities and fostered economic growth. The discovery of phosphate deposits in the area also brought prosperity, driving industrial development and attracting more residents.

Today, Charlotte County is a thriving, coastal community known for its natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and strong sense of history. The county boasts a diverse population and a mix of small-town charm and modern amenities. With its rich heritage and scenic landscapes, Charlotte County continues to attract visitors and residents alike.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Charlotte County, Florida.

  • 1887 - Charlotte County is established on April 23, named after the Bay of Charlotte Harbor.
  • 1889 - The first courthouse is built in Punta Gorda, serving as the center for county government.
  • 1924 - The Tamiami Trail, a road connecting Tampa to Miami, is completed, boosting economic growth in the region.
  • 1940s - During World War II, Punta Gorda becomes an important training site for military pilots.
  • 1960s - The construction of bridges and roads increases accessibility to Charlotte County, attracting more tourists and residents.
  • 1992 - Hurricane Andrew causes significant damage to Punta Gorda and the surrounding areas.
  • 2004 - Hurricane Charley strikes Punta Gorda, causing widespread destruction and leading to extensive rebuilding efforts.
  • 2020 - Charlotte County continues to be a popular destination for retirees and tourists, offering a mix of natural beauty and recreational activities.