Historical Marker

Civil War Memorial

Historical marker location:
Emerson Cemetery, Emerson, Iowa
( Memorial is on U.S. 59 north of U.S. 34, on the right when traveling north.)

  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 Amana Colonies, located in east-central Iowa, were founded by a group of German immigrants in the mid-1800s. The Amanas are known for their unique communal way of life and their production of high-quality furniture, textiles, and food products.
Iowa random facts
Mills County, Iowa is located in the southwestern part of the state along the Missouri River. The area was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Ponca, Omaha, and Otoe. European settlers began arriving in the 1840s, with the Mormon Trail passing through the region. In 1851, the county was officially established and named after Frederick Mills, a politician from Burlington.

During the early years, Mills County developed primarily as an agricultural community, with farms and small towns dotting the landscape. The county experienced growth and prosperity with the expansion of railroads in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, causing towns like Glenwood and Pacific Junction to flourish as transportation hubs. Mills County also saw the establishment of coal mines, providing an additional source of economic activity.

In 2011, Mills County faced a major challenge when it was severely impacted by the Missouri River flooding. The flooding caused widespread damage to homes, businesses, and infrastructure, leading to evacuations and significant economic losses. However, the community rallied together to rebuild and recover, demonstrating their resilience and determination.

Today, Mills County continues to be primarily rural and agrarian, with a rich history and strong sense of community. The area is known for its natural beauty, including the picturesque Loess Hills and the Wabash Trace Nature Trail, which attracts outdoor enthusiasts. Mills County also hosts several events and festivals throughout the year, showcasing its unique heritage and providing opportunities for residents and visitors to connect and celebrate.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Mills County, Iowa.

  • 1851: Mills County is created by the Iowa legislature and named in honor of Frederick Mills, a justice of the Supreme Court of Iowa.
  • 1852: Glenwood becomes the county seat of Mills County.
  • 1857: The first courthouse in Mills County is built in Glenwood.
  • 1861-1865: Mills County residents serve in the American Civil War, with some joining the Union Army and others fighting for the Confederacy.
  • 1864: The original courthouse in Glenwood is destroyed by fire.
  • 1872: A new courthouse is constructed in Glenwood to replace the previous structure.
  • 1880s: The Chicago, Burlington and Quincy Railroad builds a line through Mills County, boosting agricultural trade and economic development.
  • 1930s: The Great Depression brings economic hardship to Mills County, with many residents seeking relief through New Deal programs.
  • 1944: An explosion at the Naval Ammunition Depot near Minden kills ten workers and causes widespread damage.
  • 1958: The current Mills County courthouse is built in Glenwood to replace the previous building.
  • 2008: A devastating flood along the Missouri River affects Mills County, causing significant damage to homes and infrastructure.
  • Present: Mills County continues to be an agricultural community, known for its farming and livestock production.