Historical Marker

Civil War and Spanish War Memorial

Historical marker location:
612 Grant Street, Beatrice, Nebraska
( Marker is on Grant Street near 6th Street (U.S. 77), on the left when traveling east.)

  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 Nebraska.
Nebraska is the birthplace of several famous individuals, including billionaire investor Warren Buffett, former Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel, and author Willa Cather.
Nebraska random facts
Gage County, Nebraska, has a rich history that dates back to the time of Native American habitation. The area was first inhabited by tribes such as the Pawnee and Otoe-Missouria, who relied on the land for hunting and agriculture. However, with the arrival of European settlers in the mid-1800s, the landscape of Gage County began to change.

In 1854, Gage County was officially established and named after William D. Gage, a prominent attorney and politician. The county quickly attracted settlers due to the fertile soil and ample opportunities for farming. Small towns and communities began to emerge, with Beatrice becoming the county seat and the largest city in the area.

The late 19th century brought significant developments to Gage County. The construction of railroads in the area opened new markets for agricultural products, allowing the county's economy to thrive. The city of Beatrice became a hub for trade and commerce, attracting businesses and industries. Immigrants from various European countries settled in Gage County, bringing their cultural influence and adding to the area's diversity.

One significant event in Gage County's history occurred on December 1, 1958, when a devastating tornado hit Beatrice. Known as the "Beatrice Tornado," it caused widespread destruction, killing 21 people and injuring over 200. However, this tragedy brought the community together, and the city rebuilt and flourished in the following years.

Today, Gage County remains an important agricultural region in Nebraska, with a diverse economy that includes manufacturing, healthcare, and education. The county maintains its small-town charm while embracing modern developments and offering a high quality of life for its residents.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Gage County, Nebraska.

  • 1854: Gage County is established by the Nebraska Territorial Legislature.
  • 1857: The county's first settlement, Filley, is established.
  • 1864: The county seat is moved from Filley to Beatrice.
  • 1872: The Burlington and Missouri River Railroad reaches Beatrice, boosting economic growth.
  • 1873: The Gage County Courthouse, which still stands today, is completed.
  • 1883: The Nebraska School for the Deaf is established in Beatrice.
  • 1890: The Nebraska Odd Fellows' Home, a retirement home, is built in Beatrice.
  • 1926: The Veterans Memorial Hall is constructed in Beatrice to honor local veterans.
  • 1961: The Homestead National Monument of America is established in Gage County.
  • 1996: Beatrice hosts the National Orphan Train Complex, dedicated to the history of orphan trains.