Historical Marker

The Civil War

Historical marker location:
5191 Willing Street, Milton, Florida
( Memorial can be reached from Willing Street, 0.1 miles west of Caroline Street.)

1861 -1865. Santa Rosa Veterans Memorial Plaza

  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.

Florida is home to the largest collection of natural springs in the world, with over 600 freshwater springs located throughout the state.
Florida random facts
Santa Rosa County, Florida, located in the northwest region of the state, has a rich and diverse history. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Creek and Choctaw peoples, before European colonization. The first European settlers arrived in the 16th century, as Spanish explorers and missionaries made contact with the local native tribes.

In the late 18th century, Spain ceded Florida to the United States, and the region of Santa Rosa County became part of the new territory. Over the years, the area's economy transitioned from primarily agricultural to more diversified industries. In the late 19th century, timber and lumber became major industries in the county, fostering economic growth and development.

Santa Rosa County played a role in the Civil War, with the Battle of Santa Rosa Island taking place in 1861. Union forces successfully defended the island from Confederate attempts to capture it. Following the war, the county slowly rebuilt and continued to grow. In the early 20th century, the discovery of oil in the region led to further economic expansion.

Today, Santa Rosa County is known for its beautiful beaches, historical landmarks, and strong military presence. The county is home to the Gulf Islands National Seashore, offering pristine coastline and outdoor recreational opportunities. Additionally, the Naval Air Station Whiting Field, located in Santa Rosa County, serves as a key training base for naval aviators. The county continues to thrive as a popular tourist destination, while also preserving its unique history and natural beauty.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Santa Rosa County, Florida.

  • 1821 - Santa Rosa County is established as a county in the territory of Florida.
  • 1822 - The first permanent settlement, known as Floridatown, is established in the area.
  • 1844 - Milton becomes the county seat of Santa Rosa County.
  • 1861-1865 - Santa Rosa County, like the rest of the South, is greatly affected by the American Civil War.
  • 1916 - The city of Gulf Breeze is incorporated.
  • 1925 - The Garcon Point Bridge, connecting Santa Rosa County to southern Escambia County, is completed.
  • 1963 - Hurricane Flora causes significant damage to Santa Rosa County.
  • 1997 - Hurricane Opal strikes the area, causing extensive destruction and loss of life.
  • 2010 - The Deepwater Horizon oil spill affects the coastline of Santa Rosa County.
  • 2019 - Hurricane Sally makes landfall in Santa Rosa County, resulting in widespread flooding and damage.