Historical Marker

Middletown and the Civil War

Historical marker location:
Middletown, Connecticut
( Marker is at the intersection of Pleasant Street and Main Street, on the left when traveling east on Pleasant Street.)

  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.

Connecticut was one of the original 13 colonies and played a significant role in the American Revolution. Many important battles and skirmishes were fought in Connecticut, including the Battle of Ridgefield and the Battle of Groton Heights.
Connecticut random facts
Middlesex County is located in the state of Connecticut and has a rich historical background that dates back to the early colonial period. The area was initially inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Wangunks and the Mattabesecks. In 1662, the English settlement of Middlesex County began when the Connecticut General Assembly designated the area as a separate county.

During the American Revolutionary War, Middlesex County played a significant role in the fight for independence. Middletown, the county seat, served as a center for military operations and a base for the Continental army. The county's maritime activity also contributed to the war efforts, as its ports were used for privateering, a form of legalized piracy against British ships.

In the 19th century, Middlesex County saw significant growth and development. The advent of industrialization led to the establishment of textile mills, clock factories, and other manufacturing enterprises. This economic boom brought an influx of immigrants, particularly from Ireland and Italy, who added to the county's cultural diversity.

The county's prominence continued into the 20th century with the founding of Wesleyan University in Middletown. The university has a significant impact on the local economy and contributes to the county's educational landscape. Middlesex County also witnessed industrial decline in the late 20th century, as many manufacturing plants closed their doors.

Today, Middlesex County is known for its historic charm, picturesque landscapes, and vibrant communities. It attracts tourists with its historic sites like Gillette Castle State Park and the Indian Hill Cemetery. The county also offers a range of recreational activities, including boating on the Connecticut River, hiking in state parks, and exploring charming towns like Essex and Old Saybrook.

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

  • 1636: Middlesex County is established by the Connecticut General Court.
  • 1700s: The county experiences rapid growth and becomes an important center for shipbuilding, trade, and agriculture.
  • 1785: Middletown, located in Middlesex County, becomes the county seat.
  • 1800s: The county's economy continues to flourish with the growth of manufacturing industries, including textile mills and ironworks.
  • 1860s: Middlesex County plays a role in the American Civil War, providing soldiers and resources to the Union Army.
  • 20th century: The county's economy transforms with the decline of traditional industries and the rise of service industries.
  • 1960s: Middlesex County experiences suburbanization, with population growth and the development of residential areas.
  • 1995: The county celebrates its 350th anniversary, highlighting its rich history and contributions to Connecticut.