Historical Marker

Breckenridge Civil War Monument

Historical marker location:
Breckenridge, Michigan
( Memorial can be reached from Pine Street near West Summit Street, on the left when traveling north.)

  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 Kellogg's company, famous for its breakfast cereals, was founded in Battle Creek, Michigan, in 1906. The company's first product was Corn Flakes, which was invented by John Harvey Kellogg and his brother Will Keith Kellogg. The company went on to produce many other popular cereals, including Rice Krispies, Frosted Flakes, and Special K.
Michigan random facts
Gratiot County, located in central Michigan, has a rich history that spans several centuries. The area was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Ojibwa, Ottawa, and Potawatomi. European settlement began in the early 19th century when fur traders and pioneers ventured into the region. In 1831, Gratiot County was officially established and named after Captain Charles Gratiot, an American soldier of French descent.

The economy of Gratiot County initially revolved around the fur trade and agriculture. The arrival of the railroad in the mid-19th century brought more opportunities for growth and development. Several towns, including Ithaca and St. Louis, experienced significant expansion as a result. Agriculture became a vital industry, with farmers growing crops such as corn, wheat, and soybeans. Gratiot County also became known for its production of high-quality dairy products.

The 20th century brought further changes to Gratiot County. The automobile industry began to shape the local economy, with factories and manufacturing plants establishing a presence in the region. The county became an important part of the automotive supply chain, as well as a hub for related industries. Additionally, advancements in technology and infrastructure brought improvements to education, healthcare, and infrastructure within the county.

Today, Gratiot County continues to prosper, with a diverse economy that includes agriculture, manufacturing, healthcare, and education. The county is home to several institutions of higher learning, providing opportunities for residents to pursue higher education. Gratiot County also boasts natural beauty, including lakes, parks, and recreational areas, making it an attractive destination for outdoor enthusiasts. With a strong sense of community and a rich history, Gratiot County remains an important part of Michigan's heritage and economy.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Gratiot County, Michigan.

  • 1820: Gratiot County is established as a county in the state of Michigan.
  • 1855: The village of Ithaca, the county seat, is platted.
  • 1867: The Detroit and Milwaukee Railroad reaches Ithaca, aiding in transportation and economic growth.
  • 1873: The City of Alma is incorporated, becoming an important hub for the county.
  • 1874: The Gratiot County Herald, the county's first newspaper, is published.
  • 1880s: Agriculture, mainly corn and wheat farming, becomes the primary industry in the county.
  • 1912: The Saginaw and Gratiot County Electric Railway opens, connecting Gratiot County with Saginaw and facilitating transportation.
  • 1925: The Gratiot County Courthouse, a notable architectural landmark, is completed.
  • 1930s: The Great Depression causes significant economic hardship, affecting the county's agricultural and industrial sectors.
  • 1950s-1960s: The automobile industry grows in importance, with several automotive manufacturing facilities established in the county.
  • 1974: Alma College, a private liberal arts college, hosts the first Alma Highland Festival and Games, an annual event celebrating Scottish heritage.
  • 1980s: Manufacturing continues to be a major industry, but the county experiences a decline in population due to economic factors.
  • 1990s-present: Gratiot County focuses on diversifying its economy, investing in renewable energy, healthcare, and education sectors.