Historical Marker

Civil War Memorial

Historical marker location:
Chanute, Kansas
( Memorial is at the intersection of Malcolm Avenue and 12th Street, on the right when traveling north on Malcolm Avenue.)
Marker installed: 1924

1861 - 1865

  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.

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Neosho County, located in southeastern Kansas, has a rich history dating back thousands of years. Before European settlers, the area was inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Osage and Sac and Fox. The county was named after the Neosho River that flows through it, which was an important waterway for both inhabitants and traders.

The first permanent settlement in Neosho County was established in 1855. The town of Osage Mission, later known as St. Paul, was established as a Catholic mission to educate and convert Native Americans. The mission played an important role in the region, and its influence can still be seen today in the architecture and history of the area.

During the Civil War, Neosho County saw its fair share of challenges. The county was a hotbed of anti-slavery sentiment, and many residents fought for the Union cause. However, the county also experienced raids from Confederate guerillas, leading to a turbulent and uncertain time for its inhabitants.

After the war, Neosho County underwent significant development. Railroads were constructed in the late 19th century, connecting the county to larger cities like Kansas City and Wichita, which facilitated the growth of industry and commerce. Agriculture also played a crucial role in the county's economy, with farmers primarily producing wheat, corn, and livestock.

Today, Neosho County continues to thrive as a rural community. Its rich history, natural beauty, and friendly communities make it an attractive place to live and visit. The county's past is celebrated through various historical sites and events, showcasing the enduring legacy of Neosho County's vibrant history.

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

  • 1855: Neosho County is established.
  • 1861-1865: Neosho County residents serve in the Union Army during the American Civil War.
  • 1870: Parsons becomes the county seat of Neosho County.
  • 1880: The St. Louis and San Francisco Railroad is extended through the county, boosting economic development.
  • 1930s: The Great Depression brings significant economic challenges to Neosho County.
  • 1950s: Construction of the Big Hill Lake reservoir begins.
  • 1970s: The Neosho County Community College is founded in Chanute.
  • 1990s: The economy diversifies with the establishment of a number of manufacturing industries.
  • 2010: Neosho County celebrates its 150th anniversary.