Historical Marker

Civil War Memorial

Historical marker location:
Princeton, Kansas
( Memorial is at the intersection of U.S. 59 and Green Street, on the right when traveling south on U.S. 59.)
Marker installed: 1907

Loyalty and Patriotism

  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 Kansas.
The town of Greensburg, Kansas was destroyed by an EF5 tornado in 2007, and has since rebuilt as a model "green town" using eco-friendly technologies and materials.
Kansas random facts
Franklin County, located in northeastern Kansas, has a rich history dating back thousands of years. The area was originally home to various Native American tribes, with the Osage being the most prevalent. European settlers began to arrive in the early 1800s, primarily attracted by the region's fertile soil and abundant natural resources.

The county was officially established on June 3, 1855, with Ottawa as its county seat. The town of Ottawa, named after the Ottawa Tribe, quickly grew into an influential trading and transportation hub, thanks to its strategic location along the Marais des Cygnes River. In 1859, Ottawa University, one of the oldest educational institutions in Kansas, was founded in the town.

Franklin County became deeply involved in the abolitionist movement during the mid-1800s. Many settlers were strong opponents of slavery and actively participated in the Underground Railroad, helping fugitive slaves escape to freedom. John Brown, a prominent figure in the fight against slavery, resided in the county for a time and used it as a base for his anti-slavery activities.

During the Civil War, Franklin County experienced several conflicts, including the Battle of Fort Titus in 1864. After the war, the county continued to prosper agriculturally, with crops such as corn, wheat, and livestock becoming vital to the local economy. In the late 19th century, the arrival of the Kansas City, Lawrence & Southern Railroad further stimulated growth and trade in the county.

Today, Franklin County remains a vibrant community, proud of its rich history and commitment to progress. From its Native American roots to its abolitionist legacy, the county's past continues to shape its identity. Visitors can explore historical landmarks, museums, and trails that highlight Franklin County's unique heritage while enjoying the natural beauty and charm that the area has to offer.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Franklin County, Kansas.

  • 1855 - Franklin County is officially established as a county in the state of Kansas.
  • 1857 - Ottawa is designated as the county seat of Franklin County.
  • 1858 - The first newspaper in Franklin County, The Kansas Tribune, is published in Ottawa.
  • 1864 - The Kansas Pacific Railway reaches Franklin County, boosting economic development.
  • 1867 - The first Franklin County Fair is held in Ottawa.
  • 1875 - Ottawa University is founded in Ottawa, becoming the first university in Kansas.
  • 1898 - The Franklin County Courthouse, an iconic building in Ottawa, is constructed.
  • 1913 - Pomona State Park is established, becoming a popular recreational area in Franklin County.
  • 1935 - The historic Old Depot Museum is opened in Ottawa, showcasing local history.
  • 1983 - The Franklin County Historical Society is founded to preserve and promote the county's history.
  • 2007 - Celebration Park, a large recreational area, is opened in Franklin County.