Historical Marker

Deerfield Civil War Monument

Historical marker location:
Deerfield, Massachusetts
( Memorial is on Old Main Street, 0.1 miles north of Albany Road, on the left when traveling north.)
Marker installed: 1962

  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.

The first Thanksgiving in America was held in Plymouth, Massachusetts in 1621. The feast lasted for three days and was attended by both Pilgrims and Native Americans.
Massachusetts random facts
Franklin County, located in western Massachusetts, has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The land was originally inhabited by several Native American tribes, including the Pocomtuc and Mohawk. European settlers arrived in the early 1700s, establishing towns and villages throughout the region.

In the 1800s, Franklin County experienced significant industrial growth. The construction of canals and the expansion of the railroad network allowed for the transportation of goods and materials, leading to the establishment of mills and factories. Towns such as Greenfield, Shelburne Falls, and Turners Falls became centers of industry, manufacturing textiles, paper, and machinery.

During the mid-1800s, Franklin County played a prominent role in the abolitionist movement. Many residents actively participated in the Underground Railroad, assisting escaped slaves on their journey to freedom. Greenfield became a hub for anti-slavery organizations and hosted meetings and conventions advocating for the abolition of slavery.

In the 20th century, Franklin County underwent significant changes. With the decline of traditional industries, the area transitioned towards a more service-based economy. Today, the county is known for its vibrant cultural scene, natural beauty, and agricultural heritage, attracting tourists and residents alike.

Overall, Franklin County's history is characterized by its rich Native American heritage, industrial boom, abolitionist legacy, and transition towards a diverse and thriving community.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Franklin County, Massachusetts.

  • 1600s: Native American tribes, including the Pocomtuc and Mahican, inhabit the area now known as Franklin County.
  • 1673: English colonists establish the town of Deerfield, one of the first European settlements in the region.
  • 1675-1676: King Philip's War erupts, resulting in attacks on English settlements, including the infamous Deerfield Massacre in 1675.
  • 1736: The town of Greenfield is officially incorporated.
  • 1774: Residents of Northfield form the Northfield Association, which becomes a model for colonial self-government and local democracy.
  • 1783: The Treaty of Paris formally ends the American Revolutionary War, leading to the creation of the United States.
  • 1800s: The development of the Industrial Revolution brings manufacturing and industrialization to towns in Franklin County.
  • 1831: The Deerfield Academy is founded, becoming one of the earliest college-preparatory schools in the United States.
  • 1851: The town of Shelburne Falls is incorporated, known for its picturesque Bridge of Flowers.
  • 1893: The first trolley line is established in Greenfield, connecting the town to neighboring communities.
  • 1901: The Franklin County Courthouse in Greenfield is completed, serving as the county seat.
  • 1956: The Interstate Highway System reaches Franklin County, with the completion of Interstate 91 through the region.
  • 2004: The Great Falls Discovery Center opens in Turners Falls, showcasing the natural and cultural history of the Connecticut River.
  • 2011: Franklin County celebrates its 200th anniversary since being officially established as a county in 1811.