Gibson County Civil War Memorial
Historical marker location: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.
In the early 19th century, white settlers began to move into Gibson County, attracted by the abundant natural resources and opportunities for farming. The town of Princeton was established as the county seat in 1814, serving as a hub of economic and political activity. The construction of transportation infrastructure, such as roads and railways, facilitated the growth of the county and enabled easier trade and communication with neighboring areas.
Gibson County played a role in the Civil War as well. While the county was predominantly pro-Union, it experienced some divisions and conflicts between supporters of the Union and the Confederacy. The county saw its fair share of skirmishes and military activity throughout the war, but by the time it ended in 1865, Gibson County began the process of healing and reconstruction.
In the 20th century, Gibson County developed into an industrial and agricultural center. The discovery of coal reserves led to the establishment of mining operations in the area, bringing economic growth and employment opportunities. Agriculture remained a vital industry, with farms producing corn, soybeans, and livestock. Gibson County also experienced suburbanization, with towns expanding and new communities being established. Today, Gibson County showcases a blend of historical preservation and modern development, with a strong focus on supporting local businesses and community initiatives.
Gibson County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Gibson County, Indiana.
- 1813 - Gibson County is established by an act of the Indiana Territorial Legislature.
- 1814 - The first courthouse is built in Princeton, serving as the county seat.
- 1823 - The Indiana General Assembly designates the site for the future town of Owensville.
- 1829 - Francisco, now a town in Gibson County, is laid out.
- 1838 - The town of Princeton is officially platted.
- 1861-1865 - Many Gibson County residents serve in the Union Army during the American Civil War.
- 1878 - The Owensville waterworks system is established.
- 1894 - The Carnegie library is built in Princeton.
- 1937 - The Gibson Generating Station, a coal-fired power plant, begins operation.
- 1954 - The Hovey Lake Fish and Wildlife Area is established, serving as a conservation area.
- 1970 - The Gibson County Fairgrounds are constructed in Princeton.
- 1996 - Toyota Motor Manufacturing Indiana opens, becoming a major employer in the county.
- 2008 - Gibson County Wind Farm, consisting of wind turbines, is inaugurated.