Historical Marker

Civil War Camp Latty

Historical marker location:
Napoleon, Ohio
( Marker is on West Riverview Ave (Ohio Route 424) west of Glenwood Avenue.)
Marker installed: 2011

  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 Reformatory, located in Mansfield, Ohio, is a famous prison that has been featured in several movies, including "The Shawshank Redemption." It was built in 1886 and operated until 1990.
Ohio random facts
Henry County, Ohio has a rich and interesting history that dates back to its establishment in 1820. The area was initially inhabited by Indigenous peoples, including the Miami and Shawnee tribes, who lived off the land and hunted in the forests and prairies. The county was named in honor of Patrick Henry, a prominent American Revolutionary War figure.

With the arrival of the first European settlers in the early 1800s, Henry County began to develop and grow. The advent of the Miami and Erie Canal in the 1830s brought increased transportation opportunities, leading to more settlers and businesses coming to the area. Agriculture quickly became a central part of the county's economy, with farmers cultivating crops such as wheat, corn, oats, and raising livestock.

The county experienced significant growth and development throughout the 19th and 20th centuries. The railroad industry played a pivotal role in the county's expansion, with several rail lines being established and connecting Henry County to other regions. This allowed for the transportation of goods and facilitated trade, contributing to economic prosperity.

Henry County has also been involved in various historical events. During the American Civil War, many residents joined the Union Army to fight for their cause. In the early 20th century, the county experienced rapid industrialization, with the establishment of factories and manufacturing plants. This brought new employment opportunities and attracted more people to the area.

Today, Henry County continues to thrive as a predominantly rural community with a strong agricultural base. Its historical significance, natural beauty, and small-town charm have made it a beloved place for residents and visitors alike.

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

  • 1817 - Henry County was established on April 1, 1817, and was named after Patrick Henry, a patriot of the American Revolution.
  • 1834 - Napoleon, the county seat, was laid out in 1834 and named after Napoleon Bonaparte.
  • 1841 - The first railroad was built in the county in 1841, connecting Henry County to the larger transportation network.
  • 1891 - The Ohio Oil Company discovered oil in Henry County, leading to an oil boom in the area.
  • 1933 - Henry County was heavily affected by the Great Depression, causing economic hardships for its residents.
  • 1950s - Henry County experienced significant industrial growth in the 1950s, attracting new businesses and expanding employment opportunities.
  • 1990s - The county saw a shift towards more diverse industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, and technology.
  • Present - Henry County continues to be a hub for agriculture, manufacturing, and small business development.