Historical Marker

Civil War Armory and Drill Hall

Historical marker location:
Leonia, New Jersey
( Marker is at the intersection of Grand Avenue (County Route 93) and W Oakdene Avenue, on the right when traveling south on Grand Avenue.)

  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 first recorded instance of a submarine attack on a ship occurred off the coast of New Jersey during the American Civil War. On February 17, 1864, the Confederate submarine CSS Hunley attacked and sank the Union ship USS Housatonic near Charleston, South Carolina, while on its way from New Jersey.
New Jersey random facts
Bergen County, located in the northeastern part of New Jersey, has a rich and varied history. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Lenape people, who lived along the Hackensack River and hunted and fished in the region. European settlement began in the 17th century when Dutch settlers established trading posts and farms. The Dutch West India Company purchased the land in the early 17th century, and it became known as Bergen, after the Dutch city of Bergen op Zoom.

During the American Revolution, Bergen County played a significant role. British troops occupied parts of the county, and the area witnessed numerous skirmishes and battles. One notable event was the Battle of Fort Lee, where General George Washington ordered the evacuation of his troops in the face of a British attack. After the war, Bergen County experienced population growth, with more diverse groups of people settling in the area.

In the 19th century, Bergen County saw significant development and industrialization. The construction of the Erie Canal and later, the railroads, helped connect Bergen County to New York City and facilitated the growth of manufacturing and commerce. Towns like Hackensack, Englewood, and Paterson became important centers of industry and trade. Additionally, the opening of the George Washington Bridge in 1931 further enhanced the county's accessibility and spurred suburbanization.

Today, Bergen County is a bustling and thriving suburban region. It is known for its diverse communities, excellent educational institutions, and proximity to New York City. The county offers a wide range of recreational and cultural attractions, including parks, museums, shopping malls, and dining options. With a combination of historical significance and modern amenities, Bergen County remains an attractive place to live, work, and visit.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Bergen County, New Jersey.

  • 1683 - Bergen County is established as one of New Jersey's original counties.
  • 1660s-1700s - European settlers, primarily of Dutch and English descent, start to establish settlements in Bergen County.
  • 1776-1783 - Bergen County plays a crucial role in the American Revolutionary War, with notable battles occurring at Fort Lee and New Bridge Landing.
  • 19th century - Industrialization and urbanization lead to significant growth in Bergen County, attracting immigrants from various European countries.
  • 1840 - The Northern Railroad of New Jersey opens, increasing connectivity and facilitating further economic development.
  • 20th century - Suburbanization becomes a dominant trend, with many residents commuting to New York City for work.
  • 1946 - Bergen Community College, the largest community college in New Jersey, is established.
  • 1970s-1980s - Bergen County experiences a surge in population and construction, accompanied by commercial and retail development.
  • 1990 - Bergen County's last remaining farm is sold, marking the end of the county's agricultural era.
  • Present - Bergen County has a diverse population and is known for its wealth, cultural institutions, and proximity to New York City.