Historical Marker

Alexander Post No. 158 G.A.R. Civil War Memorial

Historical marker location:
8660 Broadway Riverside Drive, Piqua, Ohio
( Marker can be reached from Broadway Riverside Drive (State Highway 66).)
Marker installed: 1884

  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
Miami County, located in the southwestern part of Ohio, has a rich history dating back to its establishment in the early 19th century. Settled by European immigrants, the area was originally part of the Northwest Territory. In 1807, Miami County was officially established, named after the Native American Miami tribe that once inhabited the region. The county's first seat was Troy, which has remained its county seat ever since.

During the 19th century, Miami County experienced significant growth and development. The construction of the Miami and Erie Canal, which ran through the county, played a vital role in the expansion of trade and transportation in the region. This helped establish Miami County as an important center for agriculture, manufacturing, and commerce. The county became known for its production of corn, wheat, and livestock, as well as textiles, paper, and agricultural machinery.

Miami County played a small but significant role during the American Civil War. Many residents enlisted in the Union army and fought in famous battles such as Gettysburg. The county also provided resources and support to the Union cause. After the war, Miami County continued to thrive economically, with its agricultural and manufacturing sectors experiencing growth.

In the 20th century, Miami County embraced modernization and industrialization. The construction of highways and the growth of automobile manufacturing brought new opportunities to the county. Companies such as Hobart Corporation and Airstream Inc., which produced kitchen equipment and recreational vehicles, respectively, were founded in the county and became major employers. Today, Miami County remains a vibrant community, known for its historical significance, agricultural heritage, and commitment to economic development.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Miami County, Ohio.

  • 1807 - Miami County, Ohio is established and named after the Miami Indian tribe.
  • 1810 - Piqua becomes the first village to be settled within the county.
  • 1814 - Troy is founded as another major settlement in Miami County.
  • 1823 - The Miami and Erie Canal is completed, connecting Miami County to the Ohio River.
  • 1839 - The first courthouse is built in the county seat, Troy.
  • 1851 - The railroad reaches Miami County, enhancing transportation and trade.
  • 1878 - The National Soldiers' and Sailors' Home is established in Dayton, providing care for veterans.
  • 1913 - A devastating flood hits Miami County, causing significant damage to cities and farmland.
  • 1922 - Hobart Welded Steel Houses are manufactured in Troy, revolutionizing home construction.
  • 1971 - The Miami County Courthouse is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
  • 2001 - The Great Miami Riverway project is launched, focusing on recreational development along the river.