Civil War Memorial
Historical marker location:Kentland Newton County Indiana
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.
Settlement in the area began in the 1820s, with many pioneers attracted to the fertile soil and timber resources. The county's early economy was based on agriculture, particularly corn and wheat farming. The establishment of the Wabash and Erie Canal in the 1840s further fueled economic growth, providing a transportation route for farmers to export their goods.
The mid-19th century brought significant changes to Newton County. The arrival of the railroad in the 1850s connected the county to larger markets, allowing for increased trade and development. With the railroad's expansion, coal mining also became a major industry in the area. Several mining towns were established, such as Ade, Goodland, and Sumava Resorts, attracting immigrants looking for job opportunities.
Throughout its history, Newton County has experienced both successes and challenges. The construction of highways and the decline of the railroad industry in the mid-20th century led to changes in the county's economy and population. However, agriculture remains a vital part of the county's heritage, with modern farmers utilizing advanced technologies and techniques to sustain the land.
Today, Newton County continues to embrace its rural character while also adapting to meet the needs of a changing world. Its rich history, natural resources, and welcoming community make it a unique and vibrant part of Indiana.
Newton County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Newton County, Indiana.
- 1836 - Newton County is established, named after Sir Isaac Newton
- 1851 - The county's first courthouse is built in Kentland
- 1881 - The Monon Railroad is extended through the county, increasing trade and transportation
- 1907 - Construction of the Brookston Reservoir begins for water supply
- 1925 - The county's first high school, the Kentland High School, is established
- 1943 - Newton County becomes a part of the United States' Manhattan Project during World War II
- 1960 - Birth of Newton County Historical Society, dedicated to preserving the county's history
- 1995 - The town of Morocco celebrates its centennial
- 2007 - Newton County hosts its first Covered Bridge Festival
- 2019 - Newton County's population is approximately 14,150 individuals