Historical Marker

Civil War Mortar

Historical marker location:
340 S Main St, Phillipsburg, New Jersey
( Memorial is on Sitgreaves Street just west of Cross Street, on the left when traveling west.)

  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
Warren County, New Jersey has a rich history that dates back to the early 18th century. The area was originally inhabited by the Lenni Lenape Native American tribe until European settlers began to arrive in the late 17th century. In 1738, Warren County was officially established as part of Sussex County, and was named after Joseph Warren, a hero of the Battle of Bunker Hill during the American Revolution.

During the Revolutionary War, Warren County played a significant role in shaping the outcome of the conflict. The area witnessed several key battles and skirmishes, including the infamous Battle of Monmouth in 1778. Many important figures from the revolution, such as George Washington and Alexander Hamilton, traversed through the county during this time. The war left a lasting impact on the region, with numerous historic sites and landmarks still standing today.

The 19th century saw the rise of industry in Warren County, particularly in the form of iron mining and manufacturing. The county became renowned for its vast iron ore deposits and numerous ironworks. This industrial boom led to population growth and the establishment of towns such as Phillipsburg and Hackettstown. However, as the demand for iron declined in the late 19th century, the county's economy began to shift towards agriculture and tourism.

In the 20th century, Warren County experienced periods of both growth and decline. The construction of major highways, such as Route 78 and Route 80, brought increased accessibility to the region, leading to a surge in suburban development in the post-World War II era. However, this growth also brought challenges like urban sprawl and loss of rural landscapes. Yet, Warren County has managed to preserve its natural beauty and historical significance, attracting visitors with its outdoor recreational opportunities and historic sites. Today, Warren County continues to evolve, combining its rich past with a vision for the future.

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

  • Prehistoric times - Native Americans, including the Lenape tribe, inhabit the area
  • 1694 - The first European settlement is established in what is now Warren County
  • 1753 - Warren County is officially formed as part of Hunterdon County
  • 1824 - Warren County becomes its own separate county
  • 1839 - The Morris Canal, an important transportation route, reaches its terminus in Warren County
  • Late 19th century - The iron industry becomes a major part of the county's economy
  • Early 20th century - Agriculture and tourism continue to grow, with attractions like the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area becoming popular
  • 1950s - 1970s - Urbanization and industrialization lead to significant population growth in the county
  • Present - Warren County is known for its mix of rural charm and modern amenities, attracting residents and visitors alike