Historical Marker

Civil War Skirmish - 1862

Historical marker location:
107 Court Square, West Plains, Missouri
( Marker is at the intersection of Court Square (Washington Avenue) and West Main Street, on the left when traveling south on Court Square (Washington Avenue).)

West Plains, Missouri

  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.

Missouri was admitted to the Union as the 24th state on August 10, 1821, becoming the first state entirely west of the Mississippi River.
Missouri random facts
Howell County, located in the southern part of Missouri, has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, such as the Osage and Delaware, who relied on the vast natural resources for their survival. European explorers began to settle in the region in the late 18th century, with the Spanish being the first to establish a presence.

In the early 19th century, as the United States expanded westward, Howell County saw an influx of settlers from other parts of the country. The county was officially established in 1851 and named after Josiah Howell, a Missouri state legislator. The county's economy initially relied on agriculture, especially tobacco and corn farming, as well as livestock raising.

During the American Civil War, Howell County was heavily divided, with some residents supporting the Confederacy and others remaining loyal to the Union. The county experienced several skirmishes and raids, leaving a lasting impact on the local communities. After the war, Howell County began to recover and grow, with the expansion of railroad lines and the establishment of industries such as timber and logging.

In the 20th century, Howell County continued to evolve and adapt. The construction of highways and improved infrastructure led to further growth and development. Today, the county boasts a diverse economy that includes agriculture, manufacturing, healthcare, and tourism. With its scenic beauty, outdoor recreational opportunities, and thriving communities, Howell County remains a vibrant and historically significant part of Missouri.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Howell County, Missouri.

  • 1818 - Howell County, MO is established as part of the Missouri Territory.
  • 1851 - The first settlement is established in the area.
  • 1857 - The county is officially organized and named after Howell Valley.
  • 1861-1865 - Howell County is heavily impacted by the American Civil War.
  • 1872 - West Plains becomes the county seat.
  • 1883 - The Kansas City, Fort Scott and Memphis Railroad is completed, improving transportation in the county.
  • 1928 - The Missouri State Fruit Experiment Station is established in Mountain Grove.
  • 1962 - The West Plains Civic Center is constructed.
  • 1974 - A tornado strikes West Plains, causing significant damage.
  • 1997 - The West Plains High School is constructed.