Historical Marker

Bond County Civil War Memorial

Historical marker location:
Greenville, Illinois
( Marker is on Main Street near 2nd Street, on the right when traveling west.)
Marker installed: 1903

  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 Illinois.
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Illinois random facts
Bond County, Illinois, located in the southwestern part of the state, has a rich and diverse history spanning several centuries. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Illinois and Shawnee, before European settlement began in the late 18th century. In 1816, Bond County was established as one of Illinois' original nine counties.

During the early years of settlement, Bond County saw a significant influx of settlers, primarily from the southern United States. These settlers established farms and plantations, cultivating crops such as corn, wheat, and tobacco. The county's economy was also driven by salt production, thanks to the abundant salt mines in the area.

In the mid-19th century, the arrival of the railroad transformed Bond County's economy and transportation infrastructure. The county's towns and villages grew in importance as railroad hubs, facilitating trade and connecting Bond County to broader regional markets. This period of growth was further fueled by the rise of coal mining, which brought increased employment opportunities and economic prosperity to the area.

The late 19th and early 20th centuries witnessed significant social and political developments in Bond County. The county was a prominent site for the women's suffrage movement, and local women were instrumental in advocating for voting rights for women in Illinois. Bond County was also actively involved in the Prohibition movement, with temperance societies and anti-alcohol campaigns gaining considerable support within the community.

Throughout its history, Bond County has remained a predominantly agricultural region, with farming and associated industries serving as the backbone of the local economy. However, the county has also seen diversification over the years, particularly in the fields of healthcare, education, and manufacturing, contributing to its continued growth and development. Today, Bond County attracts visitors with its historical landmarks, scenic countryside, and community events that celebrate its rich heritage.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Bond County, Illinois.

  • 1817: Bond County is established from Madison County as one of the original counties of Illinois.
  • 1818: Elisha Journey builds the first house in Bond County.
  • 1821: The first county jail is built in the town of Greenville.
  • 1822: The first courthouse is constructed in Greenville.
  • 1835: The Illinois State Legislature designates Greenville as the permanent county seat.
  • 1852: The Illinois Central Railroad is completed, connecting Bond County to the rest of the state.
  • 1861-1865: Bond County residents participate in the American Civil War.
  • 1887: The current Bond County Courthouse is built in Greenville.
  • 1930s: The Great Depression severely impacts the local economy.
  • 1970s: Agriculture becomes the dominant industry in Bond County.
  • 2000s: Greenville University becomes a prominent educational institution in the county.