Historical Marker

Civil War Artillery

Historical marker location:
Denver, Colorado
( Memorial is on Steele Street.)

G.A.R. Memorial

  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 Colorado River, which flows through the state and into several other western states, is an important source of water for irrigation and hydroelectric power. The river is also a popular destination for whitewater rafting and other recreational activities.
Colorado random facts
Denver County, Colorado, has a rich and diverse history that spans centuries. The area was initially inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Arapaho and Cheyenne. In the mid-19th century, as European settlers began to migrate westward, Denver emerged as a bustling mining town during the Pike's Peak Gold Rush. The city was founded in 1858 and named after Kansas Territorial Governor James W. Denver.

During its early years, Denver quickly grew in population and economic importance, becoming the economic and transportation hub of the region. In 1876, Denver became the capital city of the newly established state of Colorado. This period marked the start of a prosperous era, driven by mining, agriculture, and the expansion of the railroad network. Denver became known as the "Queen City of the Plains" and attracted people from all walks of life.

In the early 20th century, Denver experienced significant urban development and cultural growth. The city's vibrant arts and music scene flourished, with renowned theaters, opera houses, and jazz clubs becoming popular destinations. In 1912, Denver hosted the Democratic National Convention, showcasing its rise in national prominence.

In more recent decades, Denver has undergone a transformation into a modern, cosmopolitan city. The city's economy diversified, with industries such as technology, aerospace, and telecommunications playing a key role. Denver also experienced a population boom, with suburbs expanding and attracting new residents. Today, Denver County is a thriving center of culture, commerce, and outdoor recreation, known for its stunning Rocky Mountain backdrop, friendly residents, and diverse communities.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Denver County, Colorado.

  • 1858 - Gold is discovered in the South Platte River
  • 1859 - Denver City is founded and becomes the county seat
  • 1861 - Denver County is established as one of the original 17 counties in Colorado Territory
  • 1867 - The Colorado Central Railroad reaches Denver
  • 1876 - Denver County becomes part of the newly established state of Colorado
  • 1890 - The population of Denver County reaches 106,713
  • 1920 - Denver County becomes the most populous county in Colorado
  • 2001 - The City and County of Denver consolidates into a single jurisdiction