Historical Marker

Civil War Monument

Historical marker location:
Barry, Illinois
( Memorial is on Bainbridge Street south of Main Street, on the right when traveling north.)

  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.
The first televised presidential debate in history was held in Illinois in 1960 between John F. Kennedy and Richard Nixon. The debate was held at the studios of CBS in Chicago and was watched by an estimated 70 million people.
Illinois random facts
Pike County, Illinois has a rich and diverse history that spans back centuries. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Illini and Kickapoo tribes, who utilized the abundant natural resources of the region. European settlers began to arrive in the late 18th century, attracted by the fertile land and access to transportation routes such as the Mississippi River.

The county was officially established in 1821 and was named after Zebulon Pike, a famous explorer. It quickly became known for its agriculture, with crops such as corn and wheat being grown on the fertile soil. The county also had a vibrant timber industry, as the dense forests provided valuable timber for construction and fuel.

In the mid-19th century, Pike County faced its most significant historical event - the infamous Mormon War. The conflict arose between the Mormon settlers, led by Joseph Smith, and the local residents who opposed their religious beliefs and practices. The tensions escalated to violence, resulting in several deaths and the eventual expulsion of the Mormons from the county.

Throughout the 20th century, Pike County continued to thrive as an agricultural community. However, its economy diversified with the growth of industries such as coal mining, oil drilling, and manufacturing. Today, Pike County is known for its scenic beauty, outdoor recreational opportunities, and vibrant community. Its rich history is celebrated through various historic sites, museums, and annual events that offer visitors a glimpse into the county's past.

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

  • 1821: Pike County was officially established on January 31st
  • 1824: The first settlers arrived in the area
  • 1828: The county's first courthouse was built in Atlas
  • 1833: The county seat was permanently moved to Pittsfield
  • 1835: The first newspaper, the Pike County Free Press, was published
  • 1843: The first railroad, the Northern Cross Railroad, reached Pittsfield
  • 1858: Abraham Lincoln, then a candidate for the U.S. Senate, delivered his famous "House Divided" speech in Pittsfield
  • 1879: Pike County suffered a devastating tornado that caused significant damage and loss of life
  • 1918: Pike County experienced an influenza pandemic, which resulted in numerous deaths
  • 1940s-1950s: Pike County saw a decline in population as many residents migrated to urban areas
  • 1987: The Pike County Historical Society was established to preserve the county's history