Historical Marker

Civil War Monument

Historical marker location:
10340 Lyndale Avenue South, Bloomington, Minnesota
( Memorial can be reached from Lyndale Avenue South near West 104th Street.)
Marker installed: 1890

  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 Minnesota.
Minnesota is home to the largest freshwater lake in the world by surface area, Lake Superior. It covers over 31,000 square miles and contains 10% of the world's fresh surface water.
Minnesota random facts
Hennepin County, located in the state of Minnesota, has a rich history that stretches back to prehistoric times. The area was originally inhabited by the Dakota Sioux Native American tribes, who thrived along the banks of the Mississippi River. European exploration and settlement began in the 17th century, when French fur traders arrived in search of valuable pelts. In the late 18th century, the region came under American control following the Louisiana Purchase, and the United States established Fort Snelling in 1820 to control the fur trade and maintain relations with the Native Americans.

The 19th century brought significant changes to Hennepin County, largely driven by industrialization and the growth of Minneapolis, its largest city. The construction of the Mississippi River locks in the 1860s allowed for easier navigation and trade, leading to a boom in lumber and flour milling industries. Minneapolis became known as the "Flour Milling Capital of the World" and attracted thousands of immigrants seeking work and opportunities. With its thriving industry, the city expanded rapidly, and Hennepin County became a center of commerce and culture.

The early 20th century brought further growth and development to Hennepin County. The region continued to prosper, with advancements in transportation, such as the construction of highways and railroads. The Twin Cities, Minneapolis and St. Paul, began to flourish as major metropolitan areas, attracting businesses, immigrants, and diverse communities. Hennepin County played a significant role during World War II, contributing to the war effort through manufacturing and defense industries.

In recent decades, Hennepin County has experienced continued growth and economic diversification. Minneapolis has evolved into a thriving hub for various industries, including technology, healthcare, and finance. The county has also emphasized sustainable development and environmental conservation, focusing on initiatives like green spaces, bike lanes, and public transportation. Today, Hennepin County is a vibrant, diverse community that blends its rich history with modern advancements, offering residents and visitors a wide range of opportunities and attractions.

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

  • 1852: Hennepin County is established by the Minnesota Territorial Legislature.
  • 1855: The city of Minneapolis is incorporated within Hennepin County.
  • 1860: Hennepin County becomes the most populous county in Minnesota.
  • 1878: The Minneapolis City Hall is completed, becoming a notable landmark in Hennepin County.
  • 1883: The Hennepin County Library is founded.
  • 1893: Lake Minnetonka becomes a popular recreational destination in Hennepin County.
  • 1905: The Minnesota State Fairgrounds move from Ramsey County to Hennepin County.
  • 1926: The first major highway, the Theodore Wirth Parkway, is completed in Hennepin County.
  • 1957: The Interstate Highway 35W bridge is constructed, connecting Hennepin County with neighboring counties.
  • 1971: The Hennepin County Government Center is completed, housing various county administrative offices.
  • 2008: Hennepin County becomes the 34th most populous county in the United States.