Historical Marker

Lawton Civil War Monument

Historical marker location:
Lawton, Michigan
( Memorial is on N. Main Street (State Highway 40) north of James Street, on the left when traveling north.)
Marker installed: 1893

  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.
Michigan was the site of the deadliest school massacre in American history. In 1927, a school board member in Bath, Michigan, named Andrew Kehoe detonated explosives he had planted in the local school, killing 38 children and six adults. Kehoe had also killed his wife and set fire to his farm before carrying out the attack.
Michigan random facts
Van Buren County, located in the southwestern part of Michigan, has a rich history that dates back to thousands of years ago. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Potawatomi, Chippewa, and Ottawa. These tribes relied on the abundant natural resources in the region, such as fish, game, and fertile land for farming.

In the early 19th century, European settlers began to arrive in the area. The first permanent settlement was established in 1829 in what is now the city of Paw Paw. The county was officially organized in 1837 and named after the eighth President of the United States, Martin Van Buren.

Agriculture played a significant role in the early development of Van Buren County. The fertile soil and favorable climate supported the growth of crops like wheat, corn, and orchards. By the mid-19th century, the county became known for its fruit production, particularly apples and grapes. Railroads were constructed, connecting Van Buren County to larger markets, which further fueled its agricultural growth.

In addition to agriculture, Van Buren County experienced industrial expansion during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The county boasted various industries, including sawmills, canning factories, and manufacturing facilities. This diversification helped the county's economy thrive and attracted new residents.

Today, Van Buren County continues to be a vibrant community with a mix of agricultural and industrial sectors. Its stunning natural beauty, including Lake Michigan shoreline, expansive forests, and picturesque countryside, also attracts visitors and tourists. The county upholds its rich history while embracing modern advancements, making it a unique and dynamic part of Michigan.

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

  • 1837 - Van Buren County is established as one of the original counties in Michigan.
  • 1839 - The county seat is established in Paw Paw.
  • 1847 - The Michigan Central Railroad is completed, leading to increased economic growth in the county.
  • 1861-1865 - Van Buren County contributes soldiers to the Union during the American Civil War.
  • 1870 - Van Buren County's population reaches over 23,000 residents.
  • 1881 - The Van Buren County Courthouse is built in Paw Paw.
  • 1890 - Van Buren County's population peaks at over 33,000 residents.
  • 1924 - The Mackinac Bridge, a major transportation landmark in Michigan, is opened.
  • 1963 - The Van Buren County Historical Society is founded.
  • 1980 - The Van Buren County Museum is established in Hartford.