Historical Marker

Civil War Memorial

Historical marker location:
10 Central Square, Keene, New Hampshire
( Memorial is on Central Square.)

  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.

In 1853, New Hampshire became the first state to pass a law requiring schools to provide free education to all children.
New Hampshire random facts
Cheshire County, New Hampshire, has a rich history dating back to its settlement in the mid-1700s. The region was originally inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Pennacooks and Abenaki. The first European settlers arrived in the early 1730s, led by Colonel John Schuyler. They established the town of Upper Ashuelot, which later became Keene, the county seat.

During the American Revolution, Cheshire County played a significant role. Many locals joined the patriot cause, and several battles and skirmishes took place within its borders. Keene, in particular, saw military activity during the war and served as a supply depot for the Continental Army. After gaining independence, the county experienced growth and prosperity as agriculture and industry flourished.

In the early 19th century, Cheshire County witnessed an increase in population and economic development. The construction of canals and railroads contributed to its growth, connecting the county to neighboring regions and expanding trade opportunities. Industries like textiles, lumber, and manufacturing thrived, attracting workers and further stimulating the local economy.

By the 20th century, Cheshire County saw a shift in its economic landscape. Manufacturing declined and was replaced by service-based industries, education, and healthcare. The county also became known for its scenic beauty, attracting tourists and recreation enthusiasts. Today, Cheshire County continues to be a vibrant area, balancing its historic significance with modern development and offering a high quality of life for its residents.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Cheshire County, New Hampshire.

  • 1769 - Cheshire County was established on March 19, 1769, as one of the five original counties in New Hampshire.
  • 1771 - The first settlers, led by General Jonathan Chase, arrived in the region.
  • 1771-1774 - Settlements began to form in present-day Keene and other towns.
  • 1775-1783 - Cheshire County residents actively participated in the American Revolutionary War.
  • 1780 - The town of Keene was incorporated.
  • 1791 - The town of Jaffrey was incorporated.
  • 1800s - Industrialization flourished across the county, with mills and factories being established.
  • 1858 - The city of Keene was incorporated.
  • 1902 - The city of Keene became the county seat.
  • 1940s-1960s - Cheshire County experienced significant population growth and suburbanization.
  • 1971 - The Cheshire County Historical Society was founded to preserve and promote local history.
  • 1980s-present - Cheshire County continues to thrive with a diverse economy and a focus on culture, education, and outdoor recreation.