Historical Marker

Civil War Monument

Historical marker location:
Bergholz, Ohio
( Marker is on County Highway 53, 0.2 miles north of State Park Mooretown Road, on the right when traveling north.)
Marker installed: 1871

  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 first professional baseball team, the Cincinnati Red Stockings, was formed in Ohio in 1869.
Ohio random facts
Jefferson County, OH, located in the eastern portion of the state, has a rich and storied history. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Mingo and Delaware tribes. The first European settlers arrived in the late 18th century, attracted to the region's fertile land and abundant natural resources.

In the early 19th century, Jefferson County experienced significant growth due to the expansion of the coal mining industry. The discovery of large coal deposits and the construction of the Ohio River and Erie Canal enhanced transportation and trade, leading to a rapid increase in population and economic development. Steubenville, the county seat, became a thriving center for industry and commerce during this time.

Jefferson County played a significant role in the development of the steel industry in the United States. The presence of high-quality coal and iron deposits in the county made it an ideal location for steel production. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, numerous steel mills were established, attracting an influx of immigrants to the area. The steel industry was a major contributor to the county's prosperity, providing jobs and fueling economic growth.

Over time, Jefferson County faced economic challenges as the steel industry declined. The closure of the steel mills in the late 20th century led to job losses and a decline in population. However, the county has made efforts to diversify its economy and attract new industries. Today, Jefferson County is known for its natural beauty, historic landmarks, and recreational opportunities, attracting tourists and providing a range of outdoor activities to locals.

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

  • 1786: Jefferson County is established by the Northwest Ordinance
  • 1797: Steubenville, the county seat, is founded
  • 1803: Ohio becomes a state
  • 1812: Jefferson County's population reaches 1,431
  • 1817: The Steubenville and Indiana Railroad is incorporated
  • 1825: The Ohio and Pennsylvania Canal opens in Jefferson County
  • 1861-1865: Jefferson County contributes soldiers to the Union Army during the Civil War
  • 1877: The Steubenville Gas Company is founded
  • 1902: The Carnegie Library of Steubenville is built
  • 1937: The Steubenville Steel Company is formed
  • 1956: Jefferson County's population peaks at 93,929
  • 1990: The Jefferson County Historical Association is founded