Historical Marker

Boothbay Maine Civil War Monument

Historical marker location:
1011 Wiscasset Road, Boothbay, Maine
( Memorial is at the intersection of Wiscasset Road (Maine Route 27) and Back River Road, in the median on Wiscasset Road.)
Marker installed: 1879

  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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Maine random facts
Lincoln County, located in the state of Maine, has a rich history that dates back centuries. The area was originally inhabited by the Wabanaki people, who relied on hunting, fishing, and gathering for their livelihoods. European settlement began in the early 1600s when English explorers arrived in the region. The first European settlement was established in what is now known as Pemaquid, a small peninsula located on the eastern coast of Lincoln County.

During the colonial period, Lincoln County played a significant role in the struggles between English and French forces for control of North America. Pemaquid became a strategic trading and military outpost, changing hands several times between the English and the French, as well as being attacked by Native American tribes. The area was eventually abandoned in the late 18th century, following the American Revolutionary War.

The 19th century saw the rise of maritime industries in Lincoln County, particularly shipbuilding and fishing. Towns along the coast, such as Boothbay Harbor and Damariscotta, flourished as major centers of trade and commerce. Shipbuilders constructed sturdy vessels for trade and fishing, while the fishing industry thrived due to the abundance of marine resources. The region also became popular for its abundant lumber, which was used for shipbuilding and exported to other parts of the country.

In the 20th century, the economy of Lincoln County diversified with the growth of tourism and agriculture. The county's stunning coastline and picturesque towns became popular tourist destinations, attracting visitors from around the world. Agriculture, particularly dairy farming and lobstering, also remained important to the local economy. Today, Lincoln County continues to be a blend of traditional industries and modern amenities, offering visitors and residents a glimpse into its fascinating history while embracing the opportunities of the present.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Lincoln County, Maine.

  • 1760: Lincoln County, Maine, is originally part of York County.
  • 1760-1771: The area is settled by European immigrants.
  • 1760s-1770s: Numerous conflicts arise between settlers and Native American tribes.
  • 1760s-1770s: The townships of Lincoln County are established.
  • 1777: Lincoln County is officially incorporated, named after Revolutionary War General Benjamin Lincoln.
  • 1809: The county seat is established in Wiscasset, Maine.
  • 19th Century: Lincoln County experiences significant maritime growth, with shipbuilding and fishing becoming major industries.
  • 1950s: The decline of the fishing and shipbuilding industries begins.
  • 1970s-1990s: Lincoln County's economy shifts towards tourism and recreation.
  • Present: Lincoln County continues to be a popular area for outdoor activities, attracting visitors and residents alike.