Historical Marker

Nantucket Civil War Monument

Historical marker location:
102 Main Street, Nantucket, Massachusetts
( Memorial is at the intersection of Main Street and Gardner Street, in the median on Main Street.)
Marker installed: 1874

  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.
The first American subway system was built in Boston in 1897, running from downtown Boston to the neighboring city of Cambridge.
Massachusetts random facts
Nantucket County, located in Massachusetts, has a rich and fascinating history that spans several centuries. Originally inhabited by the Wampanoag Native Americans, Nantucket saw its first European settlers in the 17th century. In 1659, the island was incorporated as a part of New York, but it soon came under the jurisdiction of Massachusetts in 1692.

During the 18th century, Nantucket thrived as a center for the whaling industry. The island's strategic location made it ideal for ships to embark on lengthy whaling expeditions, resulting in a booming economy and a wealth of resources. Nantucket's seafaring culture played a significant role in shaping the island's identity, as well as its architecture and traditions.

However, the decline of the whaling industry in the mid-19th century brought about significant changes for Nantucket. As petroleum replaced whale oil as the primary source of fuel, the demand for whaling diminished, leading to an economic downturn on the island. The once-prosperous whaling town became isolated and struggled to adapt to the changing times.

In the 20th century, Nantucket experienced a revival as it transformed into a popular tourist destination. The island's captivating beaches, charming downtown area, and rich history attracted visitors from across the country. Today, Nantucket County maintains its historical charm while embracing the economic opportunities brought about by tourism, making it a vibrant and thriving community.

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

  • 1602: Nantucket Island is first sighted by English explorer Bartholomew Gosnold.
  • 1659: Nantucket Island is officially settled by English settlers.
  • 1671: The town of Nantucket is incorporated.
  • 1692: Nantucket becomes part of the newly formed Province of Massachusetts Bay.
  • 1727: Nantucket County is established as one of the four original counties of the Province of Massachusetts Bay.
  • 1765: The Nantucket Whale Fishery is established, marking the beginning of the island's dominant industry.
  • 1820: Nantucket's population reaches its peak with over 10,000 residents.
  • 1849: The Great Fire of Nantucket destroys much of the town's historic downtown area.
  • 1854: The Nantucket Historical Association is founded to preserve and promote the island's history.
  • 1898: The Nantucket Railroad, a narrow-gauge railway, begins operation.
  • 1918: The end of whaling era due to decline in whale population and increased competition.
  • 1966: Nantucket is designated as a National Historic Landmark district.
  • 1985: The Nantucket Maria Mitchell Association is formed to honor the island's renowned astronomer.
  • 1999: Nantucket County becomes a consolidated government with the town of Nantucket.