Historical Marker

Civil War and Veterans Memorial

Historical marker location:
Lyons, Kansas
( Marker is at the intersection of Main Street (U.S. 56) and East Avenue South, on the left when traveling west on Main Street.)
Marker installed: 1918

"Lest We Forget". All Gave Some - Some Gave All

  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 first successful airplane flight west of the Mississippi River took place in Kansas in 1910, when Clyde Cessna flew his plane for the first time in Wichita.
Kansas random facts
Rice County, Kansas, located in the central part of the state, has a rich and diverse history dating back to the 1800s. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Pawnee and Kansas tribes, who relied on the fertile land and abundant wildlife for their sustenance.

The county was officially established on February 26, 1867, and was named after Samuel Allen Rice, a Brigadier General in the American Civil War. The early settlers faced challenges such as limited resources and harsh weather conditions, but with perseverance and hard work, they managed to develop thriving communities.

One significant event in Rice County's history is the arrival of the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway in the late 19th century. This led to a boom in population and commerce, as the railway brought much-needed transportation and encouraged further settlement in the area. The towns of Lyons and Sterling emerged as important railway hubs, attracting businesses, industries, and new residents.

As with many rural communities, agriculture played a vital role in shaping Rice County's history. Wheat, corn, and sorghum became the main crops grown in the region, and several flour mills and grain elevators were established to support the local economy. Today, agriculture remains a significant industry in the county, with farmers utilizing advanced technologies to maximize productivity.

In summary, Rice County, Kansas, has a rich history dating back to its establishment in the late 1800s. The area has seen the influence of Native American tribes, the impact of the railway, and the growth of agriculture as cornerstones of its development. Today, Rice County continues to thrive as a vibrant community, preserving its past while embracing a promising future.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Rice County, Kansas.

  • 1855 - The Kansas Territory is organized, including what is now Rice County.
  • 1867 - Rice County is officially established and named after Samuel A. Rice, a Union Army officer.
  • 1878 - The town of Lyons is founded as the county seat.
  • 1887 - The Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway reaches Rice County, boosting the local economy.
  • 1909 - The city of Sterling is incorporated.
  • 1937 - The Dust Bowl severely affects Rice County, leading to soil erosion and agricultural challenges.
  • 1959 - Kanopolis State Park is established, providing recreational opportunities for locals and visitors.
  • 1975 - The Central Kansas Extension District is formed, offering educational programs to the residents.
  • 1996 - The Commission on the Status of Women in Rice County is established to promote gender equality.