Historical Marker

Civil War Memorial

Historical marker location:
125 S Center St, Collinsville, Illinois
( Memorial is at the intersection of South Center Street and West Church Street, on the right when traveling south on South Center Street.)
Marker installed: 1925

  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.

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
Madison County, located in southwestern Illinois, has a rich and varied history dating back thousands of years. The area was originally home to Native American tribes, including the Illini Confederation. European settlement of the region began in the late 17th century with the arrival of French explorers and fur traders. The French established a fortified trading post on the Mississippi River known as Fort de Chartres, which became an important hub for the fur trade in the region.

In the early 19th century, after the Louisiana Purchase, the United States gained control of the area. Madison County was officially established in 1812 and was named in honor of President James Madison. The county became an important transportation and industrial hub due to its strategic location along the Mississippi River and its proximity to St. Louis. The growth of transportation infrastructure, including the construction of canals and railroads, further contributed to the county's development.

During the mid-19th century, Madison County experienced significant population growth and economic prosperity. The county's proximity to coal deposits in southern Illinois led to the establishment of numerous coal mines and the development of the coal industry. In addition, manufacturing and agriculture flourished, with industries such as steel production, pottery, and grain farming becoming prominent. The county's population continued to grow throughout the 20th century, and suburbanization became a significant trend.

Despite its economic success, Madison County also faced challenges and social issues. Racial tensions and inequality persisted, and the county played a significant role in the civil rights movement. In 1953, Madison County became the first county in the state to implement a fair housing ordinance, marking an important step towards equality. Today, Madison County continues to be a vibrant and diverse community, with a strong economy, rich cultural heritage, and a commitment to progress and inclusivity.

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

  • 1805 - Madison County is established by an act of the Illinois Territory Legislature.
  • 1812 - The first permanent settlement, known as Fountain Creek, is established.
  • 1818 - Illinois becomes a state, and Madison County is incorporated.
  • 1820 - The county seat is established in Edwardsville.
  • 1835 - Alton becomes the county seat, replacing Edwardsville.
  • 1837 - The Alton and Sangamon Railroad, the first railroad in Illinois, begins operations in Madison County.
  • 1843 - The Illinois State Normal University, now known as Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, is established in Edwardsville.
  • 1861-1865 - Madison County residents actively participate in the American Civil War.
  • 1877 - East St. Louis is officially incorporated as a city in Madison County.
  • 1894 - The famous Piasa Bird painting is restored and placed on the limestone bluffs along the Mississippi River in Alton.
  • 1917-1918 - Madison County supports the war effort during World War I.
  • 1942-1945 - Madison County contributes to the war effort in World War II, with multiple defense industries operating in the area.
  • 1954 - Alton becomes the first city in the nation to have a McDonald's restaurant.
  • 1973 - The Great Flood of 1973 affects Madison County and causes significant damage.
  • 2005 - Madison County celebrates its bicentennial anniversary.