Historical Marker

Civil War Healing

Historical marker location:
23 South Main Street, Eureka Springs, Arkansas
( Marker is on Main Street (State Highway 23) south of Spring Street, on the right when traveling south.)
Marker installed: 2011

  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 town of Eureka Springs, Arkansas, was founded in the late 19th century as a health resort due to its location near natural springs believed to have healing properties. Today, it is a popular tourist destination known for its Victorian architecture and scenic beauty.
Arkansas random facts
Carroll County, Arkansas, has a rich and diverse history dating back thousands of years. The area was initially inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Osage, Caddo, and Cherokee, who were attracted to the region's abundant natural resources. The first European exploration of the area came in the late 1700s, with French and Spanish explorers venturing through the region.

In the early 19th century, white settlers began to arrive in Carroll County, attracted by the fertile land and potential for farming. The region became part of the Arkansas Territory in 1819 and was officially organized as Carroll County in 1833. The county was named after Charles Carroll, one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence.

During the Civil War, Carroll County witnessed significant action as it straddled the Union and Confederate frontier. The Battle of Pea Ridge in 1862, fought in nearby Benton County, played a crucial role in securing the region for the Union. Despite being mostly pro-Confederate prior to the war, the majority of Carroll County's residents ultimately supported the Union during the conflict.

After the war, Carroll County experienced a period of growth and development. The arrival of the railroad in 1882 boosted the local economy, facilitating trade and transportation. The county became known for its timber and mining industries, attracting immigrants from various European countries. Today, Carroll County is a vibrant community that cherishes its history while embracing progress and development.

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

  • 1833: Carroll County, Arkansas is officially established by the Arkansas Territorial Legislature.
  • 1834: The county seat is established in the town of Carrollton.
  • 1836: The first courthouse is erected in Carrollton.
  • 1861: On the eve of the American Civil War, Carroll County is divided into pro-Union and pro-Confederate factions.
  • 1865: The Civil War ends and Carroll County begins to rebuild.
  • 1875: The railroad reaches Carroll County, bringing new opportunities for commerce and trade.
  • 1888: Eureka Springs, a popular tourist destination, is established in Carroll County.
  • 1901: The current courthouse in Berryville is completed, replacing the one in Carrollton.
  • 1962: Beaver Lake is created by the construction of Beaver Dam, providing a recreational area for residents and visitors.
  • 1985: The historic downtown district of Eureka Springs is added to the National Register of Historic Places.
  • 2000: Carroll County's population reaches over 25,000 people.