Historical Marker

Civil War Soldier Monument at Chandler Park

Historical marker location:
Macomb, Illinois
( Memorial is on North Lafayette Street south of East Calhoun Street (U.S. 67/136), on the left when traveling south.)
Marker installed: 1899

  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 World's Columbian Exposition, also known as the Chicago World's Fair, was held in Chicago in 1893. The fair was held to celebrate the 400th anniversary of Christopher Columbus's arrival in the New World, and it attracted over 27 million visitors from around the world.
Illinois random facts
McDonough County, Illinois is located in the western part of the state and has a rich history dating back to the early 19th century. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Illinois and Kickapoo peoples. European settlers began arriving in the area in the early 1830s, primarily from Kentucky and Tennessee.

In 1830, the county was officially established and named after Thomas Macdonough, a naval officer who played a significant role in the War of 1812. The county seat was established in the town of Macomb, which gradually became the center of commerce and government in the region.

During the mid-19th century, McDonough County experienced rapid growth and development, thanks in part to the construction of the Chicago, Burlington and Quincy Railroad in the late 1850s. This led to increased transportation and trade opportunities, fostering the growth of agricultural and industrial activities within the county.

The University of Western Illinois was established in Macomb in 1899, further contributing to the county's growth and development. Over the years, the university has become a major educational and cultural institution in the region, attracting students from all over the state and beyond.

Today, McDonough County remains a vibrant community with a mix of urban and rural areas. The county offers a range of recreational and cultural activities, including parks, museums, and festivals. Its rich history and natural beauty continue to attract visitors, while its strong agricultural and educational sectors contribute to its economic prosperity.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of McDonough County, Illinois.

  • 1826: McDonough County was established.
  • 1833: The first permanent settlement was made in McDonough County.
  • 1835: The county seat was established in Macomb.
  • 1837: The first courthouse was built in Macomb.
  • 1854: The Chicago, Burlington and Quincy Railroad reached McDonough County, boosting its agricultural and economic development.
  • 1860: The Civil War had a significant impact on McDonough County, with many residents enlisting in the Union Army.
  • 1875: The Macomb State Normal School (now Western Illinois University) was established.
  • 1903: The Illinois General Assembly designated Macomb as the home of Western Illinois State Normal School, later renamed Western Illinois University.
  • 1930s: McDonough County experienced the effects of the Great Depression, leading to economic hardships for many residents.
  • 1970: The Western Illinois University Broadcasting Service (WIUS-FM) began operating.
  • 2003: McDonough County celebrated its 177th anniversary.