Historical Marker

Civil War Grave Markers

Historical marker location:
Waterloo, Illinois
( Memorial can be reached from Rogers Street, 0.2 miles south of Hamacher Street (County Route 2), on the right when traveling south.)

2015 eagle Scout Project by Shane Douglas of Boy Scout Troup 323

  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 Illinois State Capitol building, located in Springfield, is home to the world's largest collection of stained glass windows by Louis Comfort Tiffany. The windows were installed in the Capitol between 1885 and 1917 and depict scenes from Illinois history.
Illinois random facts
Monroe County, Illinois has a rich and fascinating history that dates back to the early 1800s. The county was officially established in 1816 and was named in honor of James Monroe, the fifth president of the United States. The area has a strong German heritage, as many German immigrants settled here in the mid-19th century.

The early years of Monroe County were marked by small, agrarian communities and the development of infrastructure such as roads and schools. The county became a popular destination for settlers looking for fertile farmland and a peaceful way of life. Agriculture played a vital role in the county's economy, with crops such as corn, wheat, and tobacco being grown.

During the mid-19th century, Monroe County experienced significant growth and development. The arrival of the railroad in the 1850s opened up new opportunities for trade and commerce. The county seat, Waterloo, became a hub for businesses and attracted residents from surrounding areas. The growth of industry and commerce brought about the need for better transportation and infrastructure systems, leading to the construction of bridges and roads.

Monroe County has also witnessed its fair share of historical events. During the Civil War, the area was divided in terms of allegiance, with some residents supporting the Union and others supporting the Confederacy. The county saw skirmishes and troop movements, and its citizens played an active role in the war effort. In the early 20th century, the county faced challenges such as the Great Depression and World War II, but managed to rebuild and adapt to changing times.

Today, Monroe County continues to thrive as a vibrant community that embraces its history while looking toward the future. Its charming small towns, picturesque landscapes, and strong sense of community make it a wonderful place to live and visit.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Monroe County, Illinois.

  • 1722 - French explorer Philippe François Renault leads an expedition to the area that would later become Monroe County.
  • 1802 - The United States acquires the region as part of the Louisiana Purchase.
  • 1816 - Monroe County is founded and named after President James Monroe.
  • 1820 - The first courthouse is constructed in Waterloo, the county seat.
  • 1825 - The original county boundaries are established.
  • 1829 - The Illinois General Assembly grants a charter for the construction of the Illinois and Michigan Canal, which would pass through Monroe County.
  • 1831 - The first steamboat arrives in Waterloo, marking the beginning of its importance as a river port.
  • 1862 - The county experiences significant Civil War activity, including the Battle of Fort de Chartres.
  • 1873 - The first railroad is completed in the county.
  • 1918 - Lewis Bridge, the longest highway bridge in Illinois, is constructed.
  • 1950 - The population of Monroe County exceeds 20,000.
  • 2010 - The population reaches over 32,000.