Historical Marker

Brattleboro Civil War Monument

Historical marker location:
Brattleboro, Vermont
( Marker is on Park Place, 0.1 miles east of Linden Street (Vermont Route 30), on the left when traveling east.)
Marker installed: 1887

  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 establish a state park: In 1900, Vermont established the first state park in the United States, known as the Mt. Tom State Park. The park is located in Woodstock, Vermont.
Vermont random facts
Windham County, Vermont has a rich and diverse history that spans centuries. The county was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Abenaki people, who relied on the land's abundant natural resources for their sustenance. European settlers began arriving in the area in the mid-18th century, with the establishment of Fort Dummer in present-day Brattleboro in 1724. The initial settlements faced challenges from both Native American tribes and conflicts between colonial powers.

In the late 18th century, Windham County played a significant role in the American Revolutionary War. It was the site of important military actions, such as the Battle of Bennington in 1777, which marked a turning point for the American forces. Following the war, Windham County experienced rapid growth and became known for its thriving manufacturing industry, particularly in textiles, paper, and agriculture.

As transportation improved with the expansion of railroads and canals, Windham County became an important hub for trade and commerce. The county grew economically, attracting businesses and industries that fueled its development. The advent of the industrial revolution in the 19th century transformed many towns in Windham County, such as Brattleboro and Bellows Falls, into bustling centers of production and trade.

In the 20th century, Windham County faced economic challenges as the decline of industries such as manufacturing and logging affected the region. However, the county adapted to the changing times and embraced new opportunities, particularly in tourism, services, and the arts. Today, Windham County is cherished for its picturesque landscapes, historic towns, and vibrant cultural scene, attracting visitors from near and far.

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

  • 1771 - Windham County formed and named after Windham in Connecticut
  • 1777 - Putney, one of the county's towns, incorporated
  • 1781 - Brattleboro, the county seat, incorporated
  • 1800s - Windham County experiences industrial growth with mills and factories
  • 1834 - Vermont's first medical college, the Vermont Academy of Medicine, established in Brattleboro
  • 1845 - Westminster, known for its historic meeting house, incorporated
  • 1855 - Marlboro College founded in Marlboro
  • 1869 - Wilmington Village becomes a popular tourist destination
  • 1900s - Windham County becomes a popular area for tourism and outdoor activities
  • 1935 - Mount Snow ski resort opens in Dover
  • 1970s - Windham County becomes known for its vibrant arts community