Historical Marker

Civil War Monument

Historical marker location:
Union, West Virginia
( Memorial is on 5th Street (U.S. 219) 0.1 miles north of Knobs Road, on the left when traveling north.)
Marker installed: 1982

  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 land battle of the Civil War was fought in Philippi, West Virginia on June 3, 1861. Union forces, under the command of General George B. McClellan, defeated Confederate troops in what is known as the Battle of Philippi.
West Virginia random facts
Monroe County, located in the southeastern part of West Virginia, has a rich and diverse history dating back thousands of years. The region was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Shawnee, who used the land for hunting and farming. European settlers began to arrive in the 1700s, and the county was officially formed in 1799.

During the American Revolutionary War, Monroe County played a significant role as a key transportation route between the American colonies and western territories. The county's strategic location along the Greenbrier River and the Staunton and Parkersburg Turnpike made it a vital transportation hub. Many notable figures of the time, including George Washington and Andrew Lewis, traveled through the county during this period.

In the mid-1800s, Monroe County experienced rapid economic growth thanks to the development of the coal and timber industries. The arrival of railroads further spurred this growth, enabling the transportation of goods and resources to other markets. The county's natural beauty also attracted tourists, leading to the establishment of resorts and hotels along the Greenbrier River and in the nearby Allegheny Mountains.

Throughout the 20th century, Monroe County faced economic challenges due to declining industries, particularly coal and timber. However, the county has managed to preserve its historic charm and agricultural heritage. Today, Monroe County is known for its picturesque landscapes, outdoor recreational opportunities, and a vibrant community that values its historical roots.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Monroe County, West Virginia.

  • Pre-1700s: Monroe County was inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Cherokee, Shawnee, and Seneca.
  • 1750s: European settlers began to explore and settle the area, primarily from Virginia and Pennsylvania.
  • 1774: The Battle of Point Pleasant took place near the county, part of Lord Dunmore's War between Virginia and Native American tribes.
  • 1799: Monroe County was officially established by the Virginia General Assembly, named after President James Monroe.
  • 1800s: The county saw agricultural growth and the development of numerous small communities, including Union, the county seat.
  • 1861-1865: Monroe County, like many areas in the region, was heavily impacted by the American Civil War, with skirmishes and troop movements taking place.
  • 1880s-1910s: The county experienced a boom in lumber and timber production, leading to economic growth.
  • Mid-20th century: Monroe County transitioned from an agrarian economy to focus more on tourism, attracting visitors to its natural beauty and outdoor activities.
  • Present: Monroe County continues to be known for its scenic landscapes, outdoor recreation, and rich historical heritage.