Historical Marker

The Civil War Comes to Indiana

Historical marker location:
Maukport, Indiana
( Marker is on Indiana Route 135, 0.2 miles north of 2nd Street, on the right when traveling north.)

John Hunt Morgan Heritage Trail

  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 first public school system in the United States was established in Indiana in 1852. The state was also home to the first kindergarten in the United States, which was founded in 1873 by a German immigrant named Margarethe Schurz.
Indiana random facts
Harrison County, Indiana, was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Shawnee and Miami. The area was first explored by Europeans in the 17th century when French fur traders ventured into the region. However, it was not until the late 18th century that European settlers arrived in significant numbers. Harrison County was officially established in 1808 and named after President William Henry Harrison, who later became the ninth President of the United States.

During the early years of its establishment, Harrison County primarily relied on agriculture, with farming being the primary occupation of its settlers. The county's fertile soil and favorable climate made it ideal for growing crops such as corn, wheat, and tobacco. As the population grew, small towns started to develop, and infrastructure improved with the construction of roads and bridges.

In the 19th century, Harrison County played a significant role in the Underground Railroad, a network of secret routes and safe houses that helped enslaved African Americans escape to freedom. The county's proximity to the Ohio River made it an important hub for the movement, and many courageous residents played key roles in assisting runaway slaves.

In the 20th century, Harrison County experienced significant growth and industrial development. The discovery of oil and natural gas reserves in the area brought economic prosperity, leading to the establishment of oil refineries and other related industries. Over the years, the county has continued to thrive and diversify its economy, while also preserving its historical heritage and natural beauty.

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

  • 1808: Harrison County, IN was established on October 26, 1808.
  • 1809: The first courthouse in Corydon, the county seat, was built.
  • 1816: Corydon became the first state capital of Indiana.
  • 1819: Harrison County's population reached over 6,000 residents.
  • 1841: The county's second courthouse was constructed in Corydon.
  • 1861-1865: Many residents of Harrison County served in the Union Army during the American Civil War.
  • 1939: The third and current courthouse was built in Corydon.
  • 1966: The site of the original State Capitol building in Corydon became a historic site.
  • 1973: The Harrison County Historical Society was founded.
  • 2012: The county celebrated its bicentennial anniversary.