Historical Marker

Elkhart Civil War Monument

Historical marker location:
Elkhart, Indiana
( Memorial can be reached from the intersection of Middlebury Street and Grace Avenue, on the right when traveling west.)
Marker installed: 1909

  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 Indiana.
The limestone industry has played a significant role in Indiana's economy and culture. The state is often called the "Limestone Capital of the World" and the stone has been used in many notable buildings, including the Empire State Building in New York City.
Indiana random facts
Elkhart County, located in the northern part of Indiana, has a rich history dating back thousands of years. The area was inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Miami and Potawatomi, who relied on the fertile land and abundant wildlife for their livelihoods.

European settlement began in the early 19th century, with the establishment of the Elkhart Prairie Trading Post by French traders. The area quickly attracted settlers due to its agricultural potential and proximity to the St. Joseph River, which provided a vital transportation route. Elkhart County was officially formed in 1830 and named after the river that flows through it.

The arrival of the railroad in the 1850s further boosted the county's growth and economic development. Elkhart became a major railway hub, attracting industries and businesses. Throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Elkhart County experienced significant industrial expansion, particularly in the manufacturing of musical instruments, automobiles, and recreational vehicles.

In recent years, Elkhart County has continued to evolve and diversify its economy. The RV industry remains a significant contributor to the county's economy, earning it the title of the "RV Capital of the World." Additionally, Elkhart County has a vibrant arts and culture scene, with numerous museums, theaters, and galleries, as well as a thriving Amish community that adds to the county's unique character.

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

  • 1700s: Native American tribes, including the Miami and Potawatomi, inhabit the region that is now Elkhart County
  • 1790: The first European settlers arrive in the area
  • 1830s: Elkhart County is officially established, named after the Elkhart River
  • 1851: The city of Elkhart is incorporated
  • 1852: The New York Central Railroad reaches Elkhart, boosting the local economy
  • Late 19th century: Elkhart becomes a major center for the production of musical instruments
  • Early 20th century: The automotive industry brings further growth and prosperity to Elkhart
  • 1920s: Elkhart becomes known as the "Band Instrument Capital of the World"
  • Mid-20th century: Elkhart experiences significant industrial development and diversification
  • Late 20th century: The county becomes a hub for recreational vehicle (RV) manufacturing
  • 2008: Elkhart County is heavily affected by the Great Recession and experiences a significant decline in the RV industry
  • Present: Elkhart County continues to strive for economic recovery and diversification