Historical Marker

Civil War Memorial

Historical marker location:
Holton, Kansas
( Memorial is at the intersection of New York Avenue and 4th Street (Kansas Highway 116), on the right when traveling north on New York Avenue.)
Marker installed: 1913

  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.
Before becoming a state, Kansas was the site of many battles and conflicts between pro-slavery and anti-slavery groups, earning it the nickname "Bleeding Kansas."
Kansas random facts
Jackson County, Kansas has a long and rich history that dates back to the early 19th century. The county was established on August 25, 1855, and was named in honor of President Andrew Jackson. It was initially part of the Kansas Territory and later became one of the first counties to be included in the state of Kansas.

The area was primarily inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Delaware, Kickapoo, and Shawnee tribes. The arrival of European settlers in the mid-19th century led to conflicts and the forcible removal of the Native American tribes from the region.

During the American Civil War, Jackson County played a significant role as it was located on the Missouri-Kansas border, which was a hotspot of violence and conflict. The county witnessed several skirmishes, including the Battle of Hickory Point, which took place on September 27, 1861. The Union Army established Fort Harker in the county to protect the Kansas frontier from Confederate raiders.

After the Civil War, Jackson County experienced agricultural and economic growth. The construction of railroads in the late 19th century and the availability of fertile land fueled the development of farming communities. The county became known for its production of crops such as corn, wheat, soybeans, and livestock.

In the present day, Jackson County is a thriving community with a diverse economy. It is home to several towns, including Holton, the county seat, and offers a variety of recreational activities, such as fishing, hiking, and exploring the picturesque Banner Creek Reservoir. The county also takes pride in its historical landmarks, such as the Holton Opera House and the Jackson County Courthouse, which provide glimpses into its storied past.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Jackson County, Kansas.

  • 1854 - Jackson County established as a political subdivision of the Kansas Territory.
  • 1858 - The county seat is officially established in the town of Holton.
  • 1864 - The Battle of Soldier Creek takes place during the American Civil War.
  • 1887 - The Missouri Pacific Railroad reaches Holton, bringing economic growth to the region.
  • 1894 - The first courthouse is built in Holton.
  • 1924 - The Jackson County Historical Society is founded to preserve the county's history.
  • 1951 - Banner Creek Reservoir is completed, providing recreational opportunities for residents.
  • 1978 - The Jackson County Heritage Jubilee becomes an annual event celebrating the county's history and culture.
  • 1999 - The Holton/Jackson County Chamber of Commerce is established to promote local businesses.
  • 2010 - The county's population reaches over 13,000 residents.