Historical Marker

Mattoon's Union Agricultural Fairgrounds and Civil War Camp Grant

Historical marker location:
72 Shelby Ave, Mattoon, Illinois
( Marker is on Shelby Avenue east of North Second Division Street, on the right when traveling east.)
Marker installed: 2014

  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 Chicago River was famously dyed green for the first time in 1962 to celebrate St. Patrick's Day. The tradition has continued every year since then, and now the river is dyed green for the holiday using an eco-friendly vegetable dye.
Illinois random facts
Coles County, Illinois has a rich and diverse history that dates back thousands of years. The area was originally home to Native American tribes, including the Kickapoo, Wea, and Piankashaw, who inhabited the region before European settlement. In the early 1800s, settlers from the east began moving into Coles County, attracted by its fertile soil and natural resources.

The county was officially established in 1830 and named after Edward Coles, the second governor of Illinois. During the early years, agriculture played a vital role in the county's economy, with farmers growing crops such as corn, wheat, and soybeans. The county also became known for its prominent agricultural fairs and exhibitions, which showcased the latest farming techniques and technology.

Coles County saw significant growth in the mid-1800s with the construction of railroads, which opened up new opportunities for trade and transportation. The county became an important hub for the Illinois Central Railroad, attracting industries such as coal mining and manufacturing. Charleston, the county seat, experienced rapid development as a result, with the establishment of businesses, schools, and a growing population.

In the 20th century, Coles County continued to evolve, experiencing both the challenges and successes of a changing economy. The decline of coal mining in the region led to the loss of jobs and economic downturn. However, the county managed to diversify its economy, attracting new industries such as healthcare, education, and retail. Today, Coles County is known for its vibrant communities, natural beauty, and a balance between its rich history and a vision for the future.

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

  • 1816 - Coles County is established as a county in Illinois.
  • 1821 - The first settlement in Coles County is made by Thomas Russell.
  • 1830 - Coles County experiences significant growth with the arrival of the National Road.
  • 1831 - The town of Charleston is founded and becomes the county seat.
  • 1858 - The Illinois Central Railroad is completed, further boosting the county's growth.
  • 1877 - Eastern Illinois University (then known as Eastern Illinois Normal School) is founded in Charleston.
  • 1919 - The Charleston Riot, a race riot, occurs in Coles County.
  • 1977 - Coles County celebrates its sesquicentennial (150th anniversary).
  • 1996 - Coles County becomes a participant in the Illinois Main Street Program.
  • 2019 - Coles County celebrates its bicentennial (200th anniversary).