Historical Marker

Civil War Memorial

Historical marker location:
Russell, Kansas

  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 first Pizza Hut restaurant opened in Wichita, Kansas in 1958.
Kansas random facts
Russell County, located in the state of Kansas, has a rich and diverse history that spans centuries. The region was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, particularly the Kansa and Pawnee tribes, who utilized the area's fertile land for hunting and agriculture. In the early 19th century, European settlers began to explore and settle in the region, leading to the establishment of Russell County.

The county was officially organized in 1867 and named after US Senator, George A. Russell. The area quickly became a hub for agriculture, with settlers taking advantage of the vast prairies and rich soil to grow crops such as wheat, corn, and sorghum. This led to the establishment of numerous farming communities across the county.

The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century brought further growth and prosperity to Russell County. The town of Russell, the county seat, became a major trading center and transportation hub, attracting new businesses and industries. The railroad not only facilitated the transportation of crops but also brought in new residents and immigrants, further diversifying the population.

Over the years, Russell County has faced periods of economic challenges, particularly during the Great Depression. However, the county has remained resilient, adapting to new industries and technologies. Today, Russell County is known for its agricultural heritage, picturesque landscapes, and friendly communities. It continues to thrive as a center for farming and ranching while also embracing modern advancements and technologies.

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

  • Russell County was established on February 26, 1867.
  • In 1871, the first county courthouse was built in Russell Springs, the original county seat.
  • In 1872, Catherine Russell, widow of Avra P. Russell, donated land for a new county seat, which was named Russell after her late husband.
  • In 1880, the Union Pacific Railroad reached Russell, leading to increased settlement and economic growth.
  • The first newspaper in Russell County, the Record, was established in 1880.
  • In 1888, the county built a new courthouse in Russell, replacing the previous structure.
  • In 1928, the Smoky Hill River overflowed, causing significant damage to bridges and infrastructure in Russell County.
  • During the Dust Bowl era of the 1930s, Russell County experienced severe drought, soil erosion, and economic hardships.
  • In 1951, Wilson Reservoir was completed, providing a recreational area and water source for the county.
  • Russell County celebrated its centennial in 1967 with various events and commemorations.
  • In recent years, the county has focused on promoting tourism and outdoor activities, utilizing its natural attractions and historical sites.