Historical Marker

Chester Civil War Memorial

Historical marker location:
Chester, New Hampshire
Marker installed: 1904

  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 state's motto "Live Free or Die" was adopted in 1945 and reflects New Hampshire's long-standing tradition of individualism and self-reliance.
New Hampshire random facts
Rockingham County, New Hampshire has a rich history dating back to its establishment in 1769. Named after Charles Watson-Wentworth, the 2nd Marquess of Rockingham, this county was initially settled by European colonists seeking new opportunities in the New World. The original inhabitants of the area were the Pennacook Native American tribe, who were gradually displaced as more settlers arrived.

In its early years, Rockingham County was primarily an agricultural region. Farming was a vital part of the economy, with crops like corn, wheat, and potatoes being grown. The county also had a thriving shipbuilding industry, taking advantage of its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean. Along the coast, several small towns and fishing villages emerged, contributing to the county's growth.

During the American Revolutionary War, Rockingham County played a significant role. Exeter, one of its major towns, was temporarily the capital of New Hampshire and hosted the state's government meetings. Many local residents actively participated in the war effort, serving in the military or supporting the cause in various ways.

In the 19th and 20th centuries, Rockingham County experienced rapid industrialization and urbanization. The textile industry became prominent, with mills popping up along the region's rivers. The county's population boomed, and towns like Portsmouth, Derry, and Salem saw significant growth. Today, Rockingham County remains a thriving area, blending its historical roots with modern developments, making it a vibrant part of New Hampshire's cultural and economic landscape.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Rockingham County, New Hampshire.

  • 1623 - Captain John Mason receives a land grant for the area known as New Hampshire.
  • 1629 - The first English settlement, known as Little Harbor, is established.
  • 1641 - The area becomes part of the Massachusetts Bay Colony.
  • 1679 - New Hampshire is separated from the Massachusetts Bay Colony and becomes its own province.
  • Rockingham County is officially established, named after Charles Watson-Wentworth, 2nd Marquess of Rockingham, in 1769.
  • 1775-1783 - Rockingham County residents actively participate in the American Revolutionary War.
  • 1816 - The Portsmouth Naval Shipyard is established in Kittery, Maine, but is located across the Piscataqua River from Rockingham County.
  • 1903 - The Hampton Beach State Park is established.
  • 1938 - The Great New England Hurricane causes significant damage to the county and other parts of New England.
  • 1980 - The Seabrook Nuclear Power Plant begins commercial operations, generating controversy and public protests.