Historical Marker

Enfield Civil War Monument

Historical marker location:
Enfield, New Hampshire
( Memorial is at the intersection of New Hampshire Route 4 and High Street, on the left when traveling east on State Route 4.)

  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 New Hampshire.
The first American to receive a patent was New Hampshire resident Samuel Hopkins, who patented a new method of making potash in 1790.
New Hampshire random facts
Grafton County, located in the state of New Hampshire, has a rich history that dates back to colonial times. It was originally settled by European immigrants in the mid-18th century, with the first townships established in the 1760s. The area was primarily occupied by indigenous Abenaki people, who had traditionally used the lands for hunting and fishing.

During the American Revolution, Grafton County played a significant role in the fight for independence. Many local residents enlisted in the Continental Army and fought in pivotal battles such as Bunker Hill and Saratoga. Although the county itself was not directly involved in any major battles, it provided crucial resources and support, including supplying troops with food and clothing.

In the early 19th century, Grafton County experienced rapid industrialization, driven by the rise of the textile and manufacturing industries. Water-powered mills were established along the region's rivers, leading to the growth of mill towns such as Lebanon and Littleton. These towns became centers of commerce and provided employment opportunities for many local residents.

Since then, Grafton County has experienced steady population growth and development. It has become known for its scenic beauty, with the White Mountains National Forest covering a large portion of the county. The area continues to attract tourists and outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for hiking, skiing, and other recreational activities. Grafton County's rich history and natural attractions make it a vibrant and diverse part of New Hampshire.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Grafton County, New Hampshire.

  • 1769 - Grafton County is established by the New Hampshire Provincial Assembly.
  • 1770 - Townships within Grafton County are granted to settlers by the Masonian Proprietors.
  • 1772 - Plymouth becomes the first incorporated town in Grafton County.
  • 1773 - Dartmouth College is founded in Hanover.
  • 1799 - The town of Haverhill is split into two separate towns, resulting in Woodsville.
  • 1823 - The town of Bath is incorporated.
  • 1827 - The town of Lisbon is incorporated.
  • 1840 - The town of Lincoln is incorporated.
  • 1865 - The town of Littleton is incorporated.
  • 1895 - The town of Lebanon is incorporated.
  • 1939 - The Old Man of the Mountain, a famous rock formation, collapses in Franconia Notch.