Historical Marker

Wayne County Civil War Monument

Historical marker location:
Central Park, Honesdale, Pennsylvania
( Memorial is on Court Street north of 9th Street, on the left when traveling north.)
Marker installed: 1869

  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.

Pennsylvania was home to the first commercially drilled oil well in the world, which was drilled in 1859 near Titusville.
Pennsylvania random facts
Wayne County, Pennsylvania, has a rich history that dates back to the Native American tribes who originally occupied the region. The first European settlers arrived in the late 18th century, mostly from Connecticut, and quickly established small farming communities. The county was officially formed in 1798 and named after General Anthony Wayne, a Revolutionary War hero.

During the 19th century, Wayne County experienced a period of rapid growth and development. The Delaware and Hudson Canal, completed in 1828, played a significant role in connecting the county to major markets in New York City. The canal brought increased commerce and prosperity to the region, attracting new settlers and supporting the growth of towns such as Honesdale, the county seat.

In the second half of the 19th century, Wayne County emerged as a popular destination for tourism and recreation. Its picturesque landscapes, including the Delaware Water Gap and numerous lakes, attracted visitors seeking outdoor activities and relaxation. The Pennsylvania Railroad also extended its lines to the county, further boosting tourism and facilitating transportation for both residents and visitors.

The 20th century saw Wayne County evolve into a predominantly rural and agricultural area. While farming continued to dominate the local economy, the county also became a popular retreat for city dwellers, resulting in the establishment of summer homes and vacation communities. Today, Wayne County remains a prime location for outdoor enthusiasts, with its state parks, forests, and recreational opportunities attracting visitors from near and far.

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

  • 1798: Wayne County is established, named after General Anthony Wayne.
  • 1803: The first sawmill is built in the region.
  • 1810: The first gristmill is established, allowing for local grain milling.
  • 1849: The Delaware and Hudson Canal Company completes its canal, connecting Honesdale to the Hudson River.
  • 1851: The Stourbridge Lion, the first locomotive in the United States to run on a commercial track, is tested in Honesdale.
  • 1860: The population of Wayne County reaches 19,336.
  • 1870: The Wayne County Fair is established.
  • 1903: The Wayne County Historical Society is founded.
  • 1931: The Lake Wallenpaupack reservoir is completed.
  • 1956: The Wayne Economic Development Corporation is established.
  • 1964: Prompton State Park is opened to the public.
  • 1992: The Zane Grey Museum is dedicated in Lackawaxen.
  • 2018: Wayne County celebrates its bicentennial.