Historical Marker

Civil War Balloonists

Historical marker location:
5701 Huntsman Road, Richmond, Virginia
( Marker can be reached from Huntsman Road, 0.1 miles South Airport Drive.)
Marker installed: 1962

  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 African American governor in the United States, L. Douglas Wilder, was elected in Virginia in 1989.
Virginia random facts
Henrico County, located in the Commonwealth of Virginia, has a rich and fascinating history dating back to the early 17th century. The area was originally inhabited by the Powhatan Native American tribe, who thrived along the James River. In 1611, English settlers, led by Captain John Smith, established the Citie of Henricus as the second successful English settlement in Virginia. The following years saw conflicts between colonists and Native Americans, but the county continued to grow as tobacco cultivation became a major industry.

During the Revolutionary War, Henrico County played a significant role. It witnessed several key events, including Patrick Henry's famous "Give me liberty or give me death" speech at St. John's Church in Richmond. The county was also home to some important battles, like the Battle of Gaines' Mill in 1862 during the American Civil War.

After the war, Henrico County experienced rapid growth and development. Transportation became a critical factor in its expansion, with the arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century and the construction of highways and bridges in the 20th century. The county's central location in Virginia made it an attractive hub for commerce and industry. Today, Henrico County is known for its thriving business community, diverse neighborhoods, and wide range of recreational opportunities.

Throughout its history, Henrico County has preserved its heritage and culture. It is home to numerous historical sites, including the historic Henricus Historical Park, which offers visitors a glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of early English settlers. The county also takes pride in its commitment to education, boasting a prestigious school system and being home to several higher education institutions.

In summary, Henrico County's history is one of exploration, growth, and resilience. From its early days as a colonial settlement to its current status as a bustling suburban community, the county has seen significant changes while preserving its historical roots and embracing progress.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Henrico County, Virginia.

  • 1611: Henrico County was established as one of the original eight shires of Virginia.
  • 1622: The Powhatan Native Americans attacked English settlements in the area, resulting in the "Indian Massacre of 1622."
  • 1634: The county lost territory when Charles City County was formed.
  • 1737: The town of Richmond was founded in Henrico County.
  • 1775: St. John's Church in Henrico County hosted the pivotal Second Virginia Convention where Patrick Henry delivered his famous "Give me liberty or give me death" speech.
  • 1780: The capital of Virginia was moved from Williamsburg to Richmond, further solidifying Henrico County's importance.
  • 1862: The Seven Days Battles took place in Henrico County during the American Civil War.
  • 1914: The opening of Richmond International Raceway, now known as Richmond Raceway, brought motorsports to the county.
  • 1942: Construction began on Camp Hanover, a WWII U.S. Army base that later became an outdoor ministry center.
  • 1991: Henrico County completed the redevelopment of the former Richmond International Raceway Complex into the Shops at Willow Lawn.