Historical Marker

American Civil War

Historical marker location:
Spencerville, Ohio
( Marker can be reached from the intersection of North Main Street (Ohio Route 117) and West 6th Street, on the right when traveling north.)

1861 -- 1865. Union and Confederate

  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 Great Serpent Mound, located in Adams County, Ohio, is a prehistoric effigy mound in the shape of a serpent that is more than 1,300 feet long. It is one of the largest effigy mounds in the world and is estimated to have been built by the Adena culture more than 1,000 years ago.
Ohio random facts
Allen County, OH has a rich and diverse history that spans over two centuries. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Shawnee and Delaware, before European settlers arrived in the late 1700s. The first permanent settlement in Allen County was established in 1815 along the Auglaize River, and the county itself was officially created in 1820.

The early economy in Allen County was primarily based on agriculture, with farmers cultivating crops like corn and wheat. However, the discovery of oil in the late 19th century brought about significant changes. Oil production became a major industry, leading to a boom in population and prosperity. Lima, the county seat, became known as the "Oil Center of the World" during this time.

In the early 20th century, Allen County experienced rapid industrialization. Manufacturing companies, including the Lima Locomotive Works, gained prominence and provided employment opportunities for many residents. The county's strategic location, with access to major transportation routes, further contributed to its industrial growth.

Over the years, Allen County has continued to evolve and diversify its economy. Today, it is home to a variety of industries, including healthcare, retail, and education. The county also boasts cultural attractions such as the Allen County Museum and the Veterans Memorial Civic and Convention Center. With its blend of history, industry, and community, Allen County remains a vibrant and thriving part of Ohio.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Allen County, Ohio.

  • 1817 - Allen County is established by an act of the Ohio General Assembly.
  • 1831 - Lima, the county seat of Allen County, is founded.
  • 1848 - The Miami and Erie Canal reaches Lima, bringing increased trade and economic growth.
  • 1861-1865 - Allen County residents serve in the Civil War, with several regiments being raised from the area.
  • 1885 - The Ohio Electric Railway begins operating in Lima, providing transportation and promoting industrial development.
  • 1892 - Lima Oil Field is discovered, leading to an oil boom in the area and attracting oil companies.
  • 1908 - Lima's first automobile manufacturing company, the Clark Motor Car Company, is established.
  • 1958 - The Lima Army Tank Plant is opened, becoming a major employer in the county.
  • 1980s - Economic downturn affects the county, resulting in job losses and decline in manufacturing.
  • 1996 - The Veterans Memorial Civic and Convention Center opens in Lima, enhancing the city's cultural and entertainment offerings.
  • 2010 - Census reveals a population of over 100,000 residents in Allen County.