Historical Marker

Dowagiac Civil War Monument

Historical marker location:
Dowagiac, Michigan
( Memorial is at the intersection of Main Street (State Highway M-62) and North Lowe Street, on the right when traveling west on Main Street.)
Marker installed: 1908

  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 Michigan.
The first known use of the word "Yooper" to refer to someone from the Upper Peninsula of Michigan was in the 1970s. The term has since become a popular nickname for residents of the UP.
Michigan random facts
Cass County, Michigan, located in the southwestern part of the state, has a rich history dating back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Potawatomi, who were forced to cede their land to the United States through a series of treaties in the early 19th century. In 1829, Cass County was officially established and named after the prominent statesman and territorial governor, Lewis Cass.

During the mid-19th century, Cass County experienced significant growth and development. The construction of railroads improved transportation, making the area more accessible and attractive for settlers. Agriculture played a vital role in the county's economy, with crops like wheat and corn becoming major commodities. The logging industry also thrived, thanks to the abundance of forests in the region.

Cass County played a crucial role in the Underground Railroad during the era of slavery. Many abolitionists settled in the county, providing safe harbor for escaped slaves en route to Canada. The county's prominent anti-slavery stance led to conflicts and tensions between its residents and pro-slavery advocates from the neighboring states.

In the 20th century, Cass County continued to develop economically and culturally. The county became known for its vibrant art scene, with various art institutions and galleries attracting artists from around the country. Today, Cass County boasts a mix of historical landmarks, natural beauty, and a strong sense of community, making it an appealing destination for residents and visitors alike.

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

  • 1829: Cass County is established as a county in the Michigan Territory.
  • 1831: The village of Cassopolis is chosen as the county seat.
  • 1838: The county experiences rapid population growth due to the arrival of European settlers.
  • 1848: The Michigan Central Railroad is extended to Cass County, boosting the local economy.
  • 1861-1865: During the American Civil War, many young men from Cass County serve in the Union Army.
  • 1875: The Cass County Courthouse, a significant architectural landmark, is completed in Cassopolis.
  • 1920s: The county experiences a decline in population due to economic challenges and the effects of World War I.
  • 1930s: The Great Depression further impacts the county's economy, causing additional population decline.
  • 1960s: Interstate 94 is constructed, passing through Cass County and improving transportation infrastructure.
  • 1970s: Cass County starts to witness a gradual population increase and the development of suburban areas.
  • 1990s: The county experiences significant growth in agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism industries.
  • 2010: Cass County celebrates its bicentennial anniversary.