Historical Marker

Geneseo Civil War Memorial

Historical marker location:
Geneseo, Illinois
( Memorial is at the intersection of South State Street and West Pearl Street, on the right when traveling south on South State Street.)
Marker installed: 1891

  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.
Illinois was part of the French colonial empire, and the city of Cahokia, located near present-day Collinsville, was one of the largest pre-Columbian cities in North America. At its peak, around 1250 CE, Cahokia had a population of around 20,000 people.
Illinois random facts
Henry County, Illinois has a rich history that dates back to the early 19th century. The county was established on January 13, 1825, and named after Patrick Henry, a prominent American Revolutionary War figure. It was originally part of the Illinois Territory and later became part of the state of Illinois when it was admitted to the Union in 1818.

The early settlers of Henry County were mainly farmers who took advantage of the fertile land and abundant natural resources. The county's economy relied heavily on agriculture, with corn, oats, and wheat being the primary crops. In the 1840s, the construction of the Illinois and Michigan Canal brought increased trade and transportation opportunities to the area, boosting economic growth.

During the mid-19th century, Henry County experienced significant growth and development. The construction of railroads in the 1850s further spurred economic expansion, as it provided better access to markets for agricultural products. The county also became known for its vibrant communities and thriving industries such as coal mining, brick making, and manufacturing.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Henry County witnessed a decline in agriculture due to changing economic conditions. Many residents left rural areas to seek better opportunities in urban centers. However, the county adapted to the changing times by diversifying its economy, emphasizing manufacturing and industrial development.

Throughout its history, Henry County has remained rooted in its agricultural heritage while embracing progress and economic diversification. Today, it is known for its charming small towns, historic landmarks, and a strong sense of community, making it an attractive place to live, work, and visit.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Henry County, Illinois.

  • 1825: Henry County is formed from Fulton County.
  • 1836: The first settlers arrive in the area.
  • 1843: The first post office is established in Wethersfield.
  • 1850: The Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific Railroad reaches Henry County.
  • 1861: Henry County supports the Union during the American Civil War.
  • 1870: The population of Henry County exceeds 20,000.
  • 1879: The Bishop Hill Colony in Henry County disbands.
  • 1896: The county courthouse in Cambridge is built.
  • 1907: The Modest Kraft Cheese Factory in Cambridge is destroyed by fire.
  • 1930: The Great Depression negatively impacts the county's economy.
  • 1961: The Kewanee Boiler Corporation is founded.
  • 1990: The population of Henry County reaches its peak at over 52,000.
  • 2005: The Bishop Hill State Historic Site is designated a National Historic Landmark.
  • 2019: Henry County celebrates its 194th anniversary.