Historical Marker

Canaan Civil War Memorial

Historical marker location:
Canaan, Vermont
( Memorial is at the intersection of Vermont Route 114 and Vermont Route 102, on the right when traveling east on State Route 114.)

  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.

Vermont was once an independent republic: In 1777, Vermont declared itself an independent republic, separate from both the United States and Great Britain. The republic lasted for 14 years until it was admitted as the 14th state in the Union in 1791.
Vermont random facts
Essex County, located in the northeastern part of Vermont, has a rich and diverse history that stretches back to its earliest inhabitants. The region was originally home to various Native American tribes, including the Abenaki people, who lived off the land and engaged in trading with other tribes.

The first European settlers arrived in the area in the mid-18th century, drawn by the fertile lands and abundant natural resources. These early settlers, primarily of English descent, established small farming communities and began cultivating crops such as corn, wheat, and potatoes. The region's proximity to Canada made it an important trading hub, especially during the American Revolution and the War of 1812.

During the mid-19th century, Essex County experienced significant industrial growth with the arrival of the railroads. The rail lines facilitated the transportation of goods and enabled the region to become a major timber producer. Logging and paper mills thrived, and the economy boomed as a result. However, as the 20th century progressed, the decline of the logging industry led to economic challenges for the county.

In recent years, Essex County has shifted its focus towards tourism and outdoor recreational activities due to its stunning natural landscapes, including the Green Mountains and the Connecticut River Valley. The area attracts visitors for hiking, skiing, fishing, and other outdoor pursuits. Conservation efforts have also played a crucial role in preserving the county's natural resources and maintaining the region as a haven for wildlife and outdoor enthusiasts.

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

  • 1763: Essex County is established as a county in the state of Vermont.
  • 1800s: The county sees increased settlement and growth due to the expansion of the lumber industry.
  • 1846: The town of Brighton is established as the county seat.
  • Late 1800s: The advent of the railroad boosts the economy of Essex County, allowing for easier transportation of goods.
  • 1903: The Essex County Fair is established, becoming an annual tradition celebrating the county's agricultural heritage.
  • Mid-1900s: Essex County experiences a decline in population as the economy shifts away from agriculture and traditional industries.
  • 1973: The Essex County Historical Society is founded to preserve and promote the county's history.
  • 1989: The county establishes the Essex County Natural Resources Conservation District to protect and manage its natural resources.
  • 2000s: Essex County focuses on promoting outdoor recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, and camping, to boost tourism.