Historical Marker

Cave Springs Cemetery Civil War Memorial

Historical marker location:
La Russell, Missouri
( Marker is on County Route 4, 1 mile north of Dogwood Lane, on the left when traveling south.)
Marker installed: 2009

  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 Pony Express, a mail delivery service that operated from 1860 to 1861, had a route that went through Missouri. The service used a network of riders and relay stations to transport mail from St. Joseph, Missouri, to Sacramento, California, in just 10 days.
Missouri random facts
Lawrence County, located in southwestern Missouri, has a rich and diverse history that dates back to the early 1800s. The area was originally inhabited by Osage and Delaware Native American tribes before European settlers arrived. In 1832, Lawrence County was established and named after James Lawrence, a naval officer in the War of 1812.

One significant event in the county's history was the establishment of the town of Mount Vernon in 1845, which later became the county seat. The town grew rapidly due to its location on the Osage River, which facilitated trade and transportation. Mount Vernon was also a stop on the Butterfield Overland Mail route, contributing to its economic development.

During the Civil War, Lawrence County was deeply divided. Union and Confederate sympathizers clashed in several skirmishes, including the Battle of Mount Vernon in 1863. The war had a significant impact on the county, with many homes and businesses destroyed. Following the war, the county slowly rebuilt and experienced a period of growth and prosperity.

In subsequent years, Lawrence County remained primarily agrarian, with farming and livestock production being the main sources of income. The county's economy diversified in the 20th century, with the growth of industries such as mining, manufacturing, and transportation. Today, Lawrence County continues to be a thriving community, known for its scenic beauty, strong agricultural heritage, and friendly residents.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Lawrence County, Missouri.

  • 1815 - Lawrence County is established as a county in Missouri.
  • 1827 - A census records 702 people living in Lawrence County.
  • 1835 - Mount Vernon is chosen as the county seat.
  • 1845 - Lawrence County experiences significant growth due to the California Gold Rush.
  • 1861 - The American Civil War begins, and Lawrence County becomes divided between Union and Confederate sympathizers.
  • 1865 - The Civil War ends, and Lawrence County begins rebuilding.
  • 1875 - The St. Louis & San Francisco Railroad extends its line through Lawrence County, promoting economic development.
  • 1895 - Lawrence County's population reaches its peak at around 27,000 residents.
  • 1957 - The Spring River is dammed to create the Stockton Lake, providing recreational opportunities for Lawrence County residents.
  • 1970 - A tornado strikes Mount Vernon, causing significant damage to the town.
  • 1982 - The Lawrence County Library opens, serving as a valuable resource for residents.
  • 2009 - A major ice storm causes extensive power outages and damage to infrastructure in Lawrence County.