Historical Marker

Civil War Cannons Rededicated - Restoration

Historical marker location:
609 E. National Avenue, Brazil, Indiana
( Memorial is at the intersection of East National Avenue and South Harrison Street, on the left when traveling west on East National Avenue.)
Marker installed: 1998

Brazil - Clay County, Indiana

  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 notorious bank robber John Dillinger was born in Indiana in 1903. He gained national notoriety during the Great Depression for a string of daring bank robberies and was eventually shot and killed by law enforcement in 1934.
Indiana random facts
Clay County, Indiana, located in the heart of the United States, has a vibrant and rich history that spans centuries. The area was home to Native American tribes, including the Miami and Delaware, before European settlers arrived in the early 19th century. In the early 1800s, the Treaty of St. Mary's opened the region for settlement, and pioneers flocked to Clay County in search of fertile land and opportunities.

The county was officially established in 1825, named after prominent statesman Henry Clay. Early settlers focused on agricultural endeavors, particularly farming and livestock. The region's fertile soil allowed for successful crop production, and Clay County became known for its thriving agriculture industry.

During the mid-19th century, the emergence of the railroad greatly impacted the county's growth and development. Rail lines connected Clay County to larger cities and markets, spurring economic growth and trade. With the railroad's arrival, industries like coal mining and brick manufacturing also flourished in the region. Clay County became a hub of activity, attracting new residents and businesses.

In the 20th century, Clay County faced challenges like many rural communities. However, the area's strong sense of community and perseverance allowed it to weather economic fluctuations and evolve. Today, Clay County continues to embrace its agricultural roots while also diversifying its economy with industries like manufacturing and healthcare. The county's rich history is celebrated through various museums and historical landmarks, showcasing the enduring legacy of its early settlers and the resilience of its community.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Clay County, Indiana.

  • 1825 - Clay County is established on February 12 as one of the original counties of Indiana.
  • 1838 - The town of Brazil is platted, becoming the county seat of Clay County.
  • 1850 - The county's population reaches over 9,000.
  • 1861-1865 - Clay County residents actively participate in the Civil War, with many serving in the Union Army.
  • 1866 - The first railroad, the Brazil and Southeastern Railway, is completed in Clay County.
  • 1875 - The Clay County Courthouse, still standing today, is constructed in Brazil.
  • 1917-1919 - Clay County residents serve in World War I, with contributions to the war effort on the home front as well.
  • 1930s-1940s - The Great Depression and World War II impact the county, causing economic challenges and changes in the local communities.
  • 1980s-1990s - Clay County experiences a decline in manufacturing jobs, leading to a shift towards a more diversified economy.
  • 2000s - Clay County focuses on economic development and revitalization efforts, including improvements to infrastructure and tourism initiatives.