Historical Marker

Civil War Siege Cannon

Historical marker location:
130 West Paces Ferry Rd NW, Atlanta, Georgia
( Marker can be reached from West Paces Ferry Road NW west of Slaton Drive NW, on the left when traveling west.)

  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 largest land battle of the Civil War, the Battle of Chickamauga, took place in Georgia in 1863. Over 34,000 Union and Confederate soldiers were killed, wounded, or missing in the battle.
Georgia random facts
Fulton County, Georgia has a rich and diverse history that spans centuries. The area that now comprises Fulton County was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Creek and Cherokee. European settlers arrived in the late 18th century and established trading posts and farms along the Chattahoochee River.

In 1853, Fulton County was created from portions of DeKalb, Cobb, and Campbell counties. Its formation was a result of Atlanta's rapid growth as a railroad hub, as well as its status as the capital of Georgia. The county was named after Robert Fulton, the inventor of the steamboat.

During the Civil War, Fulton County played a significant role as a major supply and transportation center for the Confederacy. Atlanta, the county seat, was a key target for Union troops. In 1864, General William T. Sherman led his famous March to the Sea, devastating Atlanta and much of Fulton County.

After the war, Fulton County experienced a period of rebuilding and growth. The city of Atlanta became a prominent center for commerce and industry in the South. With the expansion of railroads and the establishment of Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, Fulton County became a major transportation hub and economic powerhouse.

Today, Fulton County is the most populous county in Georgia, with a vibrant cultural scene, diverse communities, and a thriving economy. It is home to numerous Fortune 500 companies, prestigious universities, and world-class sporting events. Fulton County continues to evolve and adapt to the changing needs of its residents, while preserving its rich cultural heritage.

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

  • 1845: Fulton County is created on December 20th, out of the western half of DeKalb County.
  • 1853: Atlanta becomes the county seat after winning a county seat war against neighboring town, Marietta.
  • 1864: During the Civil War, Atlanta is captured by Union forces led by General William T. Sherman.
  • 1871: The first horse-drawn streetcar line begins operating in Atlanta.
  • 1907: Atlanta's first professional baseball team, the Atlanta Crackers, is founded.
  • 1956: Civil rights activist Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. leads the Montgomery Bus Boycott, sparking a nationwide movement for equality.
  • 1973: The iconic Atlanta stadium, later known as the Fulton County Stadium, is completed.
  • 1996: Atlanta hosts the Summer Olympics, showcasing the city's growth and development.
  • 2000: The Georgia Dome, a multi-purpose sports and convention center, opens in Atlanta.
  • 2017: Mercedes-Benz Stadium, home to the Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United FC, opens its doors.