Historical Marker

Decatur County Civil War Memorial

Historical marker location:
Greensburg, Indiana
( Memorial is on East Main Street (U.S. 421) west of North Franklin Street, on the right when traveling west.)
Marker installed: 1922

  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 limestone industry has played a significant role in Indiana's economy and culture. The state is often called the "Limestone Capital of the World" and the stone has been used in many notable buildings, including the Empire State Building in New York City.
Indiana random facts
Decatur County, Indiana holds a rich history dating back to its establishment in 1822. Named after Commodore Stephen Decatur, a prominent naval officer in the United States Navy, the county emerged as settlers from Kentucky, Virginia, and the Carolinas began moving westwards in search of new opportunities. The county was initially mainly covered in forests and established as an agricultural community.

In its early years, Decatur County experienced rapid growth, attracting both new settlers and industries. The development of railroads in the mid-19th century brought significant economic growth to the county, serving as a vital transportation link for both people and goods. This infrastructure development led to an increase in population and the establishment of small towns and villages throughout the county.

Decatur County's history is also marked by its involvement in the American Civil War. Many residents served in the Union Army, and the county experienced its fair share of battles and skirmishes. The town of Greensburg, the county seat, played a significant role during the war, serving as a supply depot for Union troops and even briefly housing Confederate prisoners. The war took a toll on the county, but it rebounded quickly in the post-war years.

In the 20th century, Decatur County continued to evolve and adapt to the changing times. The construction of highways and the rise of the automobile industry further connected the county to the rest of the nation. The county's agricultural and manufacturing industries thrived, and the ongoing development of infrastructure and services made Decatur County an attractive place to live and work.

Today, Decatur County remains a vibrant and close-knit community, valuing its rich history while embracing progress and growth. The county maintains a strong agricultural sector, while also fostering a diverse economy that includes manufacturing, healthcare, and retail. The sense of community pride and the preservation of its historic sites and landmarks serve as a reminder of the county's past and its potential for future development.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Decatur County, Indiana.

  • 1822 - Decatur County is established
  • 1832 - The town of Greensburg is founded, serving as the county seat
  • 1844 - First newspaper, The Decatur Register, is published
  • 1861-1865 - Many residents of Decatur County serve in the Union Army during the American Civil War
  • 1887 - Greensburg becomes the first city in the world to successfully operate the "Tree City" electric streetcar system
  • 1925 - Decatur County Courthouse is destroyed by a fire
  • 1927 - The current Decatur County Courthouse is built
  • 1954 - Greensburg is struck by a devastating tornado, resulting in the rebuilding of the city
  • 1973 - Decatur County Historical Society is formed
  • 2005 - Greensburg becomes internationally recognized for its sustainable and energy-efficient initiatives