Historical Marker

Civil War Raid Through Western North Carolina

Historical marker location:
Newton, North Carolina
( Marker is at the intersection of State Highway 16 and W A Street, on the right when traveling south on State Highway 16.)

  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 town of Saluda, North Carolina, is home to the steepest standard-gauge mainline railway grade in the United States, with a gradient of 4.7%.
North Carolina random facts
Catawba County, located in North Carolina, has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The area was home to indigenous peoples, including the Catawba and Cherokee tribes, who thrived along the banks of the Catawba River. Europeans first settled in the region in the 18th century, with the establishment of Fort Dobbs in 1756 to protect against Native American attacks.

During the early 19th century, Catawba County developed into a bustling center for trade and commerce, thanks to its strategic location along major transportation routes. The arrival of the railroad in the 1850s further accelerated growth, connecting Catawba County to larger markets and leading to the establishment of new towns and industries.

The county played a significant role in the Civil War, with many of its citizens enlisting in the Confederate Army. Catawba County faced hardships during the war, including economic struggles and the destruction caused by Union forces. However, the area slowly recovered in the post-war years, focusing on agriculture, textiles, and furniture manufacturing as its primary industries.

In the 20th century, Catawba County experienced continued growth and industrialization. The county became known as the "Furniture Capital of the South," with numerous furniture manufacturers establishing operations in the area. Over time, the economy diversified, and Catawba County now boasts a thriving manufacturing sector, including industries such as automotive, technology, and healthcare.

Today, Catawba County remains an important center of economic activity in North Carolina, with its rich history contributing to its cultural vibrancy. The county preserve its past through historical sites, museums, and festivals that celebrate its heritage and the contributions of its diverse communities.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Catawba County, North Carolina.

  • 1747: Catawba County is established as part of Anson County.
  • 1792: The county becomes part of Lincoln County.
  • 1842: Catawba County is officially formed as a separate county.
  • 1870s: Catawba County experiences significant growth with the arrival of the railroad.
  • 1920s: Catawba County becomes a hub for furniture manufacturing.
  • 1940s-1950s: Catawba County's economy diversifies with the growth of textile industries.
  • 1980s: Catawba County faces economic challenges with the decline in the textile and furniture industries.
  • Present: Catawba County continues to focus on economic redevelopment and diversification.