Historical Marker

Union Civil War Memorial

Historical marker location:
Union, Connecticut
( Memorial is at the intersection of Buckley Hwy (Route 190) and Town Hall Road, on the right when traveling east on Buckley Hwy.)
Marker installed: 1902

  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.

Audiobooks about the history of Connecticut.
The city of Hartford, Connecticut was the site of the first-ever insurance company in the United States. The Hartford Fire Insurance Company was founded in 1810.
Connecticut random facts
Tolland County, located in the northeastern part of Connecticut, has a rich history that dates back to its founding in 1785. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, such as the Mohegan, Nipmuc, and Pequot. European settlers began arriving in the region in the 17th century, establishing farmsteads and small communities.

During the American Revolution, Tolland County played a significant role. The county was known for its strong support of the Patriot cause, and many residents volunteered to serve in the Continental Army. Tolland even hosted General George Washington in 1776 as he traveled through the region. The towns of Tolland, Hebron, and Coventry were particularly active during this period.

In the 19th century, Tolland County experienced rapid industrialization. The advent of the textile industry brought mills to towns like Rockville and Stafford Springs, boosting the local economy and population. The county also became a center for agriculture, with dairy farming and tobacco production being major industries. The construction of railroads further connected Tolland County to regional markets, stimulating its growth and development.

In the present day, Tolland County continues to be a picturesque and vibrant region. Its historic towns and villages, such as Ellington, Columbia, and Somers, retain their small-town charm and showcase the county's rich architectural heritage. The county also boasts an assortment of parks, forests, and lakes, making it an attractive destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Tolland County's history, from its Native American roots to its industrial boom, has shaped its character and provided a strong foundation for its present-day communities.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Tolland County, Connecticut.

  • Tolland County was established on October 13, 1785.
  • In 1786, Tolland became the county seat.
  • In the early 19th century, the county experienced growth in agriculture and industry.
  • During the 19th century, Tolland County's population continued to increase.
  • In the 20th century, the county saw further industrial development and expansion of transportation infrastructure.
  • Tolland County is currently home to various historical sites and landmarks, showcasing its rich history.