Historical Marker

Freer Civil War Memorial

Historical marker location:
Ashland, Ohio
( Marker is at the intersection of 2nd Street and Church Street, on the right when traveling west on 2nd Street.)
Marker installed: 1888

  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 Ohio Statehouse, located in Columbus, Ohio, is one of the oldest working statehouses in the United States. Construction on the building began in 1839 and was completed in 1861.
Ohio random facts
Ashland County, located in northeastern Ohio, has a rich history dating back to the early 19th century. The area was initially occupied by Native American tribes such as the Delaware and Shawnee, who were deeply connected to the land. In 1809, the county was officially established and named after Henry Clay's estate, Ashland. The early settlers began to arrive shortly after, primarily from Pennsylvania and Virginia, seeking fertile land for farming.

During the mid-1800s, Ashland County experienced a period of rapid growth and development. The arrival of the railroad in the 1850s played a significant role in connecting the county to other regions, facilitating trade and commerce. Ashland City, the county seat, quickly became a bustling hub, attracting businesses and industries such as manufacturing, milling, and agriculture. Notable institutions, including Ashland University and the Ashland Theological Seminary, were also established during this time, contributing to the county's cultural and educational growth.

The late 19th century saw Ashland County face challenges such as the Civil War, economic recessions, and the Great Depression. However, the county's resilience and spirit persevered, leading to a revival in the late 20th century. In the mid-1900s, advancements in industry, including the automotive sector, provided new opportunities for growth and prosperity. Ashland County also embraced its natural resources, with outdoor recreational attractions like Mohican State Park and the Clear Fork Reservoir becoming popular tourist destinations.

Today, Ashland County is a vibrant community known for its thriving agricultural sector, diverse manufacturing base, and educational institutions. The county's strong sense of community and dedication to preserving its history is evident in the many historical landmarks and museums scattered throughout. Ashland County continues to evolve and adapt, staying true to its roots while embracing modern advancements, making it a place where history and progress coexist harmoniously.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Ashland County, Ohio.

  • 1846 - Ashland County is officially established by the Ohio General Assembly.
  • 1853 - The Atlantic and Great Western Railroad is completed, connecting Ashland County to the rest of the state.
  • 1861-1865 - Many residents of Ashland County serve in the Union Army during the American Civil War.
  • 1878 - Ashland University is founded as Ashland College.
  • 1913 - The Ashland County Fair is established and becomes an annual event.
  • 1940s-1950s - Ashland County experiences an economic boom due to the rise of manufacturing industries.
  • 1960 - The Ashland County Historical Society is founded to preserve the county's heritage.
  • 1989 - The Charles Mill Dam is completed, creating Charles Mill Lake and providing recreational opportunities.
  • 2000s - Ashland County continues to develop and modernize its infrastructure and economy.