Historical Marker

Civil War Cemeteries

Historical marker location:
Tarboro, North Carolina
( Marker is at the intersection of East St. James Street and St. David Street, on the right when traveling east on East St. James Street.)

Buried with Honor

  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 pirate Blackbeard (real name: Edward Teach) made his home base in the town of Bath, North Carolina, during the early 1700s.
North Carolina random facts
Edgecombe County, located in northeastern North Carolina, has a rich and diverse history that dates back centuries. The area was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes such as the Tuscarora and the Occaneechi. European settlers arrived in the late 17th century, primarily of English and Scottish descent, and began establishing plantations for tobacco cultivation.

During the colonial period, Edgecombe County became a vital agricultural center. Large-scale plantations operated by wealthy landowners dominated the economy, relying on enslaved labor. The county's fertile soil and favorable climate contributed to its success in tobacco production, making it an important commodity in the region's economy.

In the 19th century, Edgecombe County underwent significant changes brought about by the rise of industrialization and the Civil War. The county saw a transition from an agrarian society to a more industrialized one, as textile mills and factories were established. However, the devastation of the Civil War severely impacted the area, as many plantations were destroyed and the economy plummeted.

In the 20th century, Edgecombe County went through a period of recovery and diversification. Agriculture remained important, but the county also saw advancements in other sectors such as education, healthcare, and manufacturing. The establishment of educational institutions, including Edgecombe Community College, contributed to the county's development and provided opportunities for its residents.

Overall, Edgecombe County's history is characterized by its agricultural roots, the impact of the Civil War, and its transition to a more diversified economy. Today, the county continues to strive for growth and improvement while honoring its historical heritage.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Edgecombe County, North Carolina.

  • 1732: Edgecombe County is formed from parts of Bertie County.
  • 1758: Tarboro becomes the county seat of Edgecombe County.
  • 1777: The town of Rocky Mount is established in Edgecombe County.
  • 1830s-1840s: Edgecombe County becomes a major producer of turpentine and naval stores.
  • 1861-1865: Edgecombe County actively participates in the American Civil War.
  • Late 19th century: The arrival of the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad further stimulates the county's economy.
  • Early 20th century: Edgecombe County experiences significant agricultural and industrial development.
  • 1965: Hurricane Betsy causes severe damage to Edgecombe County.
  • 2003: The town of Princeville, located in Edgecombe County, is devastated by flooding from Hurricane Floyd.
  • Present: Edgecombe County continues to be a center for agriculture, manufacturing, and education.