Historical Marker

Civil War Memorial

Historical marker location:
301 Cottage Road, South Portland, Maine
( Memorial is at the intersection of Cottage Road and Mitchell Road, on the right when traveling east on Cottage Road.)
Marker installed: 1897

  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 Maine.
Maine was once part of New France: In the 17th and 18th centuries, the area that is now Maine was part of New France, which was a French colony in North America that included parts of what are now the United States and Canada.
Maine random facts
Cumberland County, located in the state of Maine, has a rich history that dates back to prehistoric times. The land that now comprises Cumberland County was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, with the Wabanaki Confederacy being the most prominent. These tribes flourished on the fertile land and made use of its abundant natural resources.

The area was first explored by European voyagers in the early 17th century, with English captain Christopher Levett being one of the first to record his visit to the region in 1623. However, it wasn't until the late 17th century that permanent European settlements began to be established. In 1713, the Treaty of Portsmouth officially transferred the territory from France to England, solidifying the English presence in the area.

Cumberland County experienced significant growth in the 18th and 19th centuries, with Portland, the county seat, emerging as a major maritime trading hub. The city became an important port for shipbuilding and trade, thriving on industries such as fishing, lumber, and shipping. Notably, during the American Revolution, the county played a crucial role in supporting the war effort, supplying ships, sailors, and supplies to the Continental Army.

In the late 19th century, Cumberland County and the city of Portland underwent significant economic and social changes. The Industrial Revolution brought rapid industrialization to the region, leading to the growth of textile mills, factories, and other industries. Portland's prominence as a major seaport continued to attract immigrants, resulting in a diverse and vibrant population. Today, Cumberland County is known for its strong economy, beautiful coastal landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, making it a desirable place to live, work, and visit.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Cumberland County, Maine.

  • 1760: Cumberland County is established in the Province of Massachusetts Bay.
  • 1775-1783: Cumberland County residents actively participate in the American Revolutionary War.
  • 1786: Cumberland County becomes part of the newly formed state of Maine.
  • 1805: Portland is incorporated as Cumberland County's county seat.
  • 1820: Maine becomes the 23rd state, and Cumberland County plays a significant role in the statehood process.
  • 1849: The Cumberland and Oxford Canal is completed, connecting Portland with the Sebago Lake region.
  • 1878: The Great Fire of Portland destroys much of the city, leading to significant reconstruction efforts.
  • 1898: Portland becomes home to the Portland Museum of Art.
  • 1951: The Maine Mall opens in South Portland, becoming the largest shopping center in the state.
  • 1982: Cumberland County Civic Center (now Cross Insurance Arena) opens in Portland, hosting various events and sports teams.
  • 2009: The Maine Red Claws, an NBA G League franchise, is established in Portland.