Historical Marker

Bethlehem Civil War and World War I Memorial

Historical marker location:
Bethlehem, Connecticut
( Marker is at the intersection of Main Street South (Connecticut Route 61) and The Green, on the left when traveling north on Main Street South.)

  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 dental school in the United States was founded in Connecticut in 1867. The school was established at the University of Maryland, which had a branch campus in Baltimore at the time.
Connecticut random facts
Litchfield County, located in the northwestern part of Connecticut, has a rich and fascinating history that spans several centuries. The area was originally inhabited by indigenous peoples, most notably the Mattabesett and Paugussett tribes. European settlers began to arrive in the early 18th century, establishing the first settlements in the region.

The county was officially established in October 1751, named after Lichfield, England. It quickly became known for its beautiful landscapes and fertile land, which attracted more settlers and spurred the growth of agriculture and trade. Litchfield County became an important center for farming, producing crops such as grains, fruits, and vegetables.

During the American Revolutionary War, Litchfield County played a significant role, with many residents actively participating in the fight for independence. The area's strategic location along major trade routes and close proximity to New York City also made it a key hub for military operations and supply lines.

In the 19th century, Litchfield County experienced significant economic and cultural growth. The town of Litchfield itself emerged as a prominent center for education and law, with the establishment of the Litchfield Law School in 1784. Many famous figures, including Aaron Burr and John C. Calhoun, studied there.

Today, Litchfield County retains much of its historical character and charm. Its picturesque landscapes, historic architecture, and rich cultural heritage continue to attract visitors and residents alike. It stands as a reminder of the area's vibrant past and the resilience of the people who have shaped its history.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Litchfield County, Connecticut.

  • 1745: Litchfield County is established in the colony of Connecticut.
  • 1773: Tapping Reeve opens the Litchfield Law School, the first law school in the United States.
  • 1776-1783: Litchfield County actively supports the American Revolution.
  • 1800: The Litchfield Female Academy, one of the first educational institutions for women, is founded.
  • 1814: The Litchfield County Courthouse, designed by architect E. Townsend Mix, is completed.
  • 1833: The Shepaug Railroad, the first railroad in the county, is established.
  • 1856: The town of Torrington becomes the county seat of Litchfield County.
  • 1873: The Connecticut State Prison is relocated to Winsted in Litchfield County.
  • 1886: The Cornwall Bridge Iron Bridge, the oldest surviving metal truss bridge in Connecticut, is constructed.
  • 1937: The town of Sharon becomes the last town to be incorporated in Litchfield County.
  • 1978: The Litchfield Hills Film Festival, later rebranded as the Litchfield Hills Film Festival, is established.