Historical Marker

Washington Civil War Memorial

Historical marker location:
Washington, Vermont
( Memorial is at the intersection of Vermont Route 110 and School Lane, on the left when traveling south on State Route 110.)

  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 the first state to legalize civil unions for same-sex couples: In 2000, Vermont became the first state in the United States to legalize civil unions for same-sex couples. This was a significant milestone in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights in the country.
Vermont random facts
Orange County, Vermont has a rich history that dates back to the time of Native American settlements. Before European settlers arrived in the 18th century, the area was predominantly inhabited by the Abenaki tribe, who lived off the land and had a strong connection to nature. The region was eventually claimed by the French in the late 1600s, followed by the English in the mid-1700s.

With the establishment of Orange County in 1781, the area began to flourish under the influence of European settlers. The county's early economy relied heavily on agriculture, particularly dairy farming, which helped drive the local economy for many years. The opening of the Vermont Central Railroad in 1849 brought additional economic growth and opportunities for trade and transportation.

During the 19th and early 20th centuries, Orange County experienced several changes and developments. The introduction of industry, including mills and factories, expanded the local economy and provided employment opportunities. Towns like Randolph and Chelsea became significant centers of commerce and industry. This period also saw the rise of education in the county, with the establishment of various schools and academies.

In the present day, Orange County remains a predominantly rural area, with a strong focus on agriculture and farming. While the county has modernized to keep up with the changing times, it still holds onto its small-town charm and close-knit communities. The historical sites, museums, and annual events in Orange County allow residents and visitors alike to connect with the region's rich history and appreciate its cultural heritage.

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

  • 1761 - Orange County is established, named after William III of Orange.
  • 1776-1783 - Orange County residents actively participate in the American Revolutionary War.
  • 1793 - Vermont's state capital is temporarily located in Randolph within Orange County.
  • 1800s - Orange County experiences rapid growth, with population and infrastructure development.
  • 1855 - The Vermont Central Railroad stretches across Orange County, stimulating economic growth.
  • 1861-1865 - Many Orange County residents serve in the American Civil War.
  • 20th Century - Orange County's economy diversifies, with agriculture, tourism, and manufacturing industries.
  • 1955 - Interstate 89, connecting Vermont and New Hampshire, is completed, improving transportation in the region.
  • 2000s - Orange County continues to thrive, with a focus on sustainable agriculture and tourism.