Historical Marker

Morris County Civil War Monument

Historical marker location:
Morristown, New Jersey
( Marker is at the intersection of S Park Place (County Route 124) and E Park Place, on the left when traveling south on S Park Place.)
Marker installed: 1871

1871

  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
Morris County, NJ has a rich history that dates back to colonial times. The region was initially settled by the Lenni Lenape Native Americans before being colonized by the Dutch, English, and other European settlers. In the late 17th century, the area became part of Hunterdon County before being established as its own county in 1739. Named after Colonel Lewis Morris, it quickly became an important agricultural and commercial center.

During the American Revolution, Morris County played a significant role as a crucial logistical and supply base for the Continental Army. General George Washington and his troops spent several winters at Jockey Hollow, which is now part of Morristown National Historical Park. The county was also home to the storied Crossroads of the American Revolution, where several pivotal battles and events took place.

In the 19th century, Morris County experienced rapid industrialization and urbanization. The construction of the Morris Canal connected the county to the Hudson River and facilitated the transport of coal, iron, and other goods. The invention of the telegraph and the expansion of the railroad further enhanced its economic growth.

In the 20th century, Morris County continued to evolve and develop. It experienced significant suburbanization and population growth as more people moved out of New York City and other urban centers. The county became known for its beautiful landscapes, historic charm, and high quality of life. Today, Morris County remains a thriving community with a diverse economy, robust cultural institutions, and a strong sense of history that continues to shape its identity.

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

  • 1694 - The area that is now Morris County, NJ was inhabited by the Lenape Native American tribe.
  • 1739 - Morris County was officially established, being formed from portions of Hunterdon County.
  • 1776-1783 - During the American Revolutionary War, Morris County saw significant military activity, as it provided a strategic location for General George Washington's army.
  • 1784 - The town of Boonton was incorporated, becoming the first town in Morris County.
  • 1827 - The Morris Canal, a major transportation route for goods between Pennsylvania and New York City, was completed, boosting the county's economy.
  • 1837 - The town of Morristown was formally incorporated, becoming the county seat.
  • 1866 - The Jersey Central Railroad opened a line in Morris County, further enhancing transportation and trade opportunities.
  • 1915 - Fosterfields, a historic farm and estate, was established in Morris County.
  • 1956 - The Morris County Park Commission was established to preserve and maintain parks and recreational areas in the county.
  • 1990 - The population of Morris County reached over 400,000, making it one of the most populous counties in New Jersey.