Historical Marker

Civil War and Woman's Relief Corps Memorial

Historical marker location:
Marion, Kansas
( Memorial is on Eisenhower Drive, on the left when traveling north.)
Marker installed: 1929

  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.

Before becoming a state, Kansas was the site of many battles and conflicts between pro-slavery and anti-slavery groups, earning it the nickname "Bleeding Kansas."
Kansas random facts
Marion County, Kansas, located in the central part of the state, has a rich history tracing back to the mid-19th century. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Osage and Kaw, who utilized the land for hunting and gathering. In 1855, the region became the first organized county in Kansas Territory and was named after American Revolutionary War general Francis Marion.

Settlers began arriving in Marion County in the 1850s, attracted by its fertile soil and ideal farming conditions. The county quickly developed into an agricultural hub, with crops like wheat, corn, and vegetables becoming major staples. Towns such as Marion and Florence sprouted up to support the growing population and serve as trade centers.

Throughout its history, Marion County witnessed several significant events. During the Civil War, tensions rose as pro-slavery and anti-slavery settlers clashed, leading to skirmishes and disturbances in the county. The arrival of the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway in the late 19th century further catalyzed the county's growth, with new opportunities for trade and transportation becoming available.

In the early 20th century, Marion County experienced both successes and challenges. The county's population peaked in the 1920s, but the Great Depression and the Dust Bowl of the 1930s hit the region hard, causing significant economic hardship. However, the county rebounded after the dust storms, and the agriculture and manufacturing sectors continued to play vital roles in its economy.

Today, Marion County retains its predominantly rural character but offers a diverse mix of farming, manufacturing, and tourism industries. The county's rich history, showcased by well-preserved prairie-style architecture and numerous historical sites, attracts visitors interested in exploring its past. Marion County remains a testament to the resilience and determination of its inhabitants throughout the years.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Marion County, Kansas.

  • 1860: Marion County established as a county in Kansas
  • 1866: First European settlers arrive in Marion County
  • 1878: Marion County Courthouse is built in Marion
  • 1887: Santa Fe Railroad comes to Marion County
  • 1893: Chingawasa Springs, a popular resort, opens in Marion County
  • 1904: Marion Reservoir is constructed for irrigation and recreation
  • 1930s: Marion County experiences severe drought during the Dust Bowl era
  • 1943: Camp Phillips, a U.S. Army training center, is established in Marion County
  • 1969: Marion County Park and Lake is opened to the public
  • 1990s: Marion County's population starts to decline due to rural depopulation
  • 2001: Marion County Old Settlers' Day celebration is established