Historical Marker

Welcome to The Exchange Hotel and Civil War Medical Museum

Historical marker location:
400 S Main St, Gordonsville, Virginia
( Marker is on Cobb Street just east of South Main Street, on the right when traveling west.)

  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 slave ship to arrive in the American colonies landed in Virginia in 1619. Virginia became a center of the transatlantic slave trade, and by 1860, Virginia had the largest population of enslaved people in the United States.
Virginia random facts
Orange County, Virginia, has a rich history dating back to its founding in 1734. Originally part of Spotsylvania County, it became its own entity due to the growing population and geographical size of the area. The county was named after William IV, the Dutch Prince of Orange, and became an important center for agriculture and trade.

During the American Revolution, Orange County played a significant role, with many residents actively participating in the fight for independence. The Battle of Germanna Ford, fought on the county's soil, saw American forces successfully halting the British Army's advance towards Charlottesville. Additionally, Orange County was home to several important figures of the revolution such as James Madison, who later became the 4th President of the United States.

In the early 19th century, Orange County saw the rise of the railroad industry, bringing newfound prosperity to the region. It became a hub for transportation and trade, leading to the growth of various industries. The county also served as a stop along the route for westward migration during the expansion of the United States.

Throughout its history, Orange County has preserved its historical landmarks and sites. The county is home to Montpelier, the estate of James Madison, which is now a National Historic Landmark. Visitors can explore not only the beautiful gardens and architecture but also gain insights into the life of one of America's Founding Fathers. The county also boasts other significant historic sites such as the Wilderness Battlefield, which played a pivotal role in the Civil War.

Today, Orange County continues to celebrate its history and heritage while also embracing modern development and growth. It remains a desirable place to live with its charming small towns, beautiful landscapes, and strong community ties.

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

  • 1734: Orange County is officially formed as a county in the Colony of Virginia.
  • Late 18th Century: Orange County becomes an important hub of commerce and trade.
  • 1861-1865: Orange County is affected by the American Civil War, with battles and skirmishes occurring in the area.
  • Early 20th Century: Orange County experiences economic decline due to the decline of agriculture and the Great Depression.
  • 1935: The Rapidan Dam is constructed, forming Lake Orange and providing a source of hydroelectric power.
  • 1975: The Town of Orange is designated as a National Historic Landmark.
  • 1990s: Orange County experiences rapid growth and suburbanization as part of the larger Washington, D.C. metropolitan area.
  • 21st Century: Orange County continues to grow and evolve, balancing its historic importance with modern development.