Historical Marker

Rochester Civil War Monument

Historical marker location:
Rochester, New Hampshire
( Memorial can be reached from Common Street just south of South Main Street (State Route 108), on the right when traveling south.)
Marker installed: 1885

  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 permanent settlement in New Hampshire was established in 1623 by English fisherman and traders.
New Hampshire random facts
Strafford County, located in eastern New Hampshire, has a rich and vibrant history dating back to the colonial era. The area was initially inhabited by the indigenous Abenaki tribe, who were gradually displaced by European settlers in the 17th century. The county itself was established in 1771 and was named after Thomas Wentworth, 1st Earl of Strafford.

During the American Revolution, Strafford County played a significant role in the struggle for independence. Residents of the county, like many New Englanders, were heavily involved in the colonial cause and fought in battles such as the Battle of Bunker Hill and the Battle of Bennington. The county also saw its fair share of loyalist activity, with some residents remaining loyal to the British Crown throughout the conflict.

In the 19th century, Strafford County experienced rapid industrialization and economic growth. The textile industry became a dominant force, with numerous mills and factories sprouting up along the Cocheco River, which runs through the central part of the county. These mills played a vital role in shaping the county's economy and attracting immigrants from various parts of Europe.

In more recent times, Strafford County has evolved into a bustling center for education and innovation. It is home to the University of New Hampshire, one of the state's flagship institutions, which has contributed significantly to the growth of the county. Strafford County also boasts a thriving arts and culture scene, with various galleries, theaters, and music venues attracting residents and visitors alike. Today, the county continues to embrace its historical roots while embracing the challenges and opportunities of the modern era.

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

  • 1631 - The area that is now Strafford County is first explored by European settlers.
  • 1643 - Dover, the first permanent settlement in the county, is established by settlers from England.
  • 1680 - The town of Durham is settled as part of the Dover Township.
  • 1771 - Strafford County is established as one of the five original counties of New Hampshire.
  • 1823 - The county seat is moved from Dover to Strafford.
  • 1840 - The Cocheco Manufacturing Company is founded, leading to the industrialization of the county.
  • 1872 - The county seat is moved once again, this time to the newly established city of Dover.
  • 1890 - Goodwin Park, the first public park in Dover, is opened.
  • 1950 - The Strafford County Courthouse is built in Dover, replacing the previous courthouse.
  • 2009 - The outlying towns of Strafford County form a regional planning commission, promoting collaboration and development in the county.