Historical Marker

Civil War Monument

Historical marker location:
200 Lincoln Street, Mankato, Minnesota
( Memorial is at the intersection of Lincoln Street and Grove Street on Lincoln Street.)
Marker installed: 1935

  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 first Intercollegiate Conference of Faculty Representatives, which would later become the Big Ten Conference, was held in Minneapolis in 1895.
Minnesota random facts
Blue Earth County, located in southern Minnesota, has a fascinating history that spans centuries. The area was originally home to the Dakota Sioux Native American tribes, who inhabited the region for thousands of years. European settlers began arriving in the early 19th century, and the county was officially established in 1853.

One significant event in Blue Earth County's history was the U.S.-Dakota War of 1862. Tensions between the Dakota people and settlers led to a conflict, resulting in the execution of 38 Dakota men in Mankato, the county seat. This remains the largest mass execution in U.S. history. The aftermath of the war brought about significant changes in the region, including the forced removal of the Dakota people from the area.

During the late 19th century, Blue Earth County experienced rapid growth and development. The introduction of the railroad in the 1860s allowed for increased transportation and economic opportunities. Agriculture became a prominent industry, with crops such as corn, wheat, and oats thriving in the fertile land. Numerous small towns and villages grew, contributing to the county's growth and prosperity.

In the 20th century, Blue Earth County continued to thrive and adapt to changing times. Advances in technology and transportation further bolstered its economy. The county is home to Minnesota State University, which was established in Mankato in 1868 and has been a major influence on the region. Today, Blue Earth County is a vibrant and diverse community, known for its natural beauty, historical significance, and strong sense of community.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Blue Earth County, Minnesota.

  • 1853: Blue Earth County is established as one of the original nine counties in Minnesota.
  • 1862: The Sioux Uprising, also known as the Dakota War of 1862, impacts the area and leads to conflict between settlers and Native Americans.
  • 1868: The city of Mankato is incorporated, becoming the county seat of Blue Earth County.
  • 1871: The first railroad reaches Mankato, greatly improving transportation and connecting the county to the rest of the region.
  • 1888: Blue Earth County Courthouse, now known as the Historic Courthouse, is constructed in Mankato.
  • 1948: The Gage Towers, a prominent landmark in Mankato, are built as the tallest buildings in southern Minnesota.
  • 1965: The Minnesota Valley Lutheran High School is established in Nicollet, providing a faith-based education to students.
  • 1996: The Blue Earth County Historical Society is formed to preserve and educate about the county's history.
  • 2010: The Blue Earth County Library undergoes renovations, modernizing the facility and expanding its resources.
  • 2018: The Greater Mankato Diversity Council is established to promote inclusivity and cultural understanding in the community.