Historical Marker

Civil War Cannon

Historical marker location:
420 N 5th St, Martins Ferry, Ohio
( Marker is on North 4th Street, 0.1 miles north of Ellet Street, on the left when traveling north.)
Marker installed: 2018

  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 State University was established in 1870 and is one of the largest universities in the United States. Its football team, the Ohio State Buckeyes, has won eight national championships.
Ohio random facts
Belmont County, located in eastern Ohio, has a rich history that can be traced back to the Native American tribes that once inhabited the region. Prior to European settlement, the area was home to tribes such as the Mingo, Delaware, and Shawnee. The first European explorers arrived in the late 1700s, with the establishment of Saint Clairsville as the county seat in 1803.

In the early years of settlement, Belmont County played a significant role in the westward expansion of the United States. It became a gateway to the Ohio River, serving as a vital transportation route. The county was also known for its coal mining industry, which started in the mid-19th century. The discovery of coal led to rapid industrialization and an influx of immigrants seeking work, particularly from European countries.

During the American Civil War, Belmont County was divided, with some residents supporting the Union cause and others sympathizing with the Confederacy. However, the county played a key role in the Union victory as it was the site of the first land battle of the war, the Battle of Philippi. This battle, fought in nearby West Virginia, marked an important turning point and foreshadowed the larger conflicts to come.

In the 20th century, Belmont County continued to thrive as an industrial center, with the growth of industries like steel and glass production. However, economic decline hit the region in the late 20th century, resulting in the closure of many factories and mines. Today, Belmont County is focusing on diversifying its economy by promoting tourism, attracting new businesses, and investing in renewable energy. The county also prides itself on its historical landmarks and cultural heritage, which attract visitors from near and far.

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

  • 1801: Belmont County is established.
  • 1803: The first courthouse is built in St. Clairsville.
  • 1812: The War of 1812 begins, and many Belmont County residents serve in the conflict.
  • 1830: The National Road reaches Belmont County, bringing increased trade and travel to the region.
  • 1861: The American Civil War begins, and Belmont County sends many soldiers to fight for the Union.
  • 1867: The Bellaire Bridge, a suspension bridge spanning the Ohio River, is completed.
  • 1871: The first natural gas well in the county is drilled, leading to the development of the local oil and gas industry.
  • 1907: The Ohio Valley Electric Railway begins operation, providing transportation throughout the county.
  • 1908: The Great Flood of 1908 devastates many communities in Belmont County.
  • 1927: The Great Ohio River Flood affects Belmont County, causing widespread damage.
  • 1937: The Ohio Valley Coal Company's mine disaster in Powhatan kills 82 miners.
  • 1974: The Jamboree In The Hills country music festival begins in Belmont County.
  • 1990: Wheeling Downs Racetrack and Gaming Center opens near Wheeling, attracting visitors to the area.
  • 2009: The Shadyside Bridge, a historic suspension bridge, is restored and reopened to the public.