Historical Marker

Civil War Hero / Héros de la guerre de sécession

Historical marker location:
Belfast, Maine
( Marker is at the intersection of Church Street, on the right when traveling west on Church Street.)
Marker installed: 2004

Belfast, Maine. The Museum in the Streets

  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.

Maine has a unique lobstering tradition: Lobstering is a way of life in Maine, and it has been for generations. Lobstering was once considered a lowly profession, but now it is a highly respected and lucrative industry. Maine lobsters are renowned for their sweet flavor and are considered a delicacy around the world.
Maine random facts
Waldo County, located in the beautiful state of Maine, has a rich and interesting history that has shaped its development over time. The area was initially home to Indigenous peoples, particularly the Penobscot and Passamaquoddy tribes, who lived in the region for thousands of years before European settlers arrived.

In the early 17th century, English explorers and traders established contact with the Native communities along the coast of present-day Maine, and by the mid-1600s, European settlement began. The land that is now Waldo County was part of the expansive Plymouth Colony before it was later incorporated as part of Massachusetts.

During the American Revolution, the area around present-day Waldo County played a significant role. Supporting the ideals of independence, local militias actively fought against British forces and participated in several key battles and skirmishes. The town of Castine, located in present-day Waldo County, was actually occupied by the British for a period of time during the war.

In 1827, Waldo County was officially established and named after Samuel Waldo, a prominent landowner and colonial leader. The county's growth and development were largely influenced by the agriculture and maritime industries. Coastal towns like Belfast and Searsport became major centers for shipbuilding and shipping, contributing to the county's prosperity. The industrial revolution in the 19th century brought further economic growth and diversification to the area.

Today, Waldo County is known for its picturesque landscapes, charming small towns, and strong sense of community. Its rich history can still be seen in the preserved historic buildings, museums, and cultural events that celebrate the region's past.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Waldo County, Maine.

  • 1789: Waldo County is established as a county in the state of Maine.
  • 1808: The county's first courthouse and jail are built in Castine, the original county seat.
  • 1827: The county seat is moved from Castine to Belfast, where a new courthouse and jail are constructed.
  • 1861-1865: Waldo County residents actively participate in the American Civil War.
  • 1873: The Belfast and Moosehead Lake Railroad is completed, connecting the county to the rest of Maine's railway network.
  • 1874: The town of Swanville is incorporated in Waldo County.
  • 1901: Unity College, a private college, is founded in Unity, Maine.
  • 1937: The Penobscot Narrows Bridge, connecting Waldo County to Prospect, is completed.
  • 1967: The Waldo-Hancock Bridge, a suspension bridge spanning the Penobscot River, is opened to traffic.
  • 1989: The Waldo County Village of Heritage Park is established in Unity, showcasing historic buildings of the area.