Historical Marker

Killingly Civil War Monument

Historical marker location:
250 Main Street, Killingly, Connecticut
( Memorial is at the intersection of Main Street (Connecticut Route 12) and Broad Street, on the left when traveling south on Main Street.)
Marker installed: 1878

  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 state of Connecticut has a long history of manufacturing, and was home to many famous companies such as Colt Firearms, Pratt & Whitney Aircraft, and General Electric. The state's manufacturing sector has declined in recent decades, but it remains an important part of the state's economy.
Connecticut random facts
Located in the northeastern part of Connecticut, Windham County has a rich history that dates back to the colonial era. The area was initially inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Mohegan and Nipmuc tribes, who cultivated the land and used its resources for sustenance. However, during the early 1600s, European settlers began to establish their presence in the region.

In 1686, Windham County was officially incorporated, becoming the state's second county and named after the English town of Windham. The county quickly became known for its agricultural prowess, with prosperous farms and mills dotting the landscape. The first major industry in the area was iron manufacturing, which boomed in the 18th century and contributed to the county's economic growth.

During the American Revolutionary War, Windham County played a crucial role in the fight for independence. The Battle of the Frogs, a lesser-known engagement, occurred in Windham, where local militia defended the town against British forces. The county also saw significant contributions to the war effort through the production of uniforms, ammunition, and other supplies.

In the 19th century, Windham County experienced industrial and technological advancements, with the textile industry taking center stage. The county became a hub for cotton mills, which helped drive its economic prosperity. However, as with many other areas, the Great Depression hit Windham County hard, causing economic downturn and job losses. Despite these challenges, the county has endured, preserving its historical charm and continuing to thrive as a diverse and vibrant region.

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

  • 1686 - Windham County is founded and established as a county in Connecticut
  • 1719 - The town of Windham is incorporated within Windham County
  • 1763 - Pomfret is incorporated as a town within Windham County
  • 1786 - Brooklyn is incorporated as a town within Windham County
  • 1786 - Canterbury is incorporated as a town within Windham County
  • 1822 - Scotland is incorporated as a town within Windham County
  • 1822 - Hampton is incorporated as a town within Windham County
  • 1849 - Killingly is incorporated as a town within Windham County
  • 1855 - Plainfield is incorporated as a town within Windham County
  • Late 19th century - Industrial growth occurs in Windham County, with the expansion of factories and mills
  • Early 20th century - The textile industry in Windham County experiences a decline
  • 1964 - Quinebaug Valley Community College is established in Windham County
  • 1970s - Windham County experiences a revitalization, with a focus on historic preservation and tourism
  • Present - Windham County continues to be a rural area with a rich history and diverse economy