Historical Marker

Great Barrington Civil War Memorial

Historical marker location:
334 Main Street, Great Barrington, Massachusetts
( Marker is at the intersection of Main Street (U.S. 7) and Castle Street, on the left when traveling north on Main Street.)
Marker installed: 1876

  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 Massachusetts.
In 1837, Harvard University held a "prostitute parade" where students marched through Boston with prostitutes to protest a law that would have made it illegal to hire women for "immoral purposes."
Massachusetts random facts
Berkshire County, located in western Massachusetts, has a rich and diverse history that dates back thousands of years. The region was originally inhabited by the Mohican Native American tribe, who were skilled hunters and farmers. They established numerous villages and had a thriving culture in the area.

European settlers arrived in the 18th century and established several towns, including Stockbridge (1734) and Great Barrington (1761). The area became known for its fertile land and timber resources, leading to the development of farming and logging industries.

In the 19th century, Berkshire County experienced industrial growth with the rise of industries like iron production, textiles, and paper manufacturing. The county's location along major rivers proved advantageous for these industries, leading to economic prosperity and population growth.

Throughout its history, Berkshire County also played a significant role in the arts and culture scene. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the region became a popular retreat for artists and writers, including Edith Wharton and Herman Melville. This artistic tradition continues today, with various museums, galleries, and theaters attracting visitors from all over.

In recent years, Berkshire County has undergone economic changes, transitioning from its industrial roots to a more diversified economy. It now boasts a mix of industries, including healthcare, education, tourism, and technology. With its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, Berkshire County remains an attractive destination for both residents and tourists alike.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Berkshire County, Massachusetts.

  • 1761: Berkshire County is established as a county in the Province of Massachusetts Bay.
  • 1762: The first town, Sheffield, is incorporated in Berkshire County.
  • 1787: The Shays' Rebellion, an armed uprising of farmers against perceived economic injustices, takes place in Berkshire County.
  • 1824: The Berkshire Agricultural Society is established, promoting advancements in agriculture in the region.
  • 1862: The Lenox Library is founded in Lenox, offering public access to books and educational resources.
  • 1893: The Berkshire Museum opens in Pittsfield, showcasing art, history, and natural science collections.
  • 1934: The Tanglewood Music Festival is established in Lenox, becoming one of the world's premier summer music festivals.
  • 1970: The Norman Rockwell Museum opens in Stockbridge, housing the largest collection of Rockwell's works.
  • 2000: The Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art (MASS MoCA) opens in North Adams, showcasing contemporary art in a former industrial complex.
  • 2011: The Berkshire County Courthouse in Pittsfield is added to the National Register of Historic Places.