Historical Marker

Sherburne Civil War Monument

Historical marker location:
1 S Main St, Sherburne, New York
( Memorial is at the intersection of South Main Street (New York State Route 12) and East State Street (New York State Route 80), on the left when traveling south on South Main Street.)
Marker installed: 1881

  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 capital of the United States was actually located in New York City, from 1785 to 1790. The city also served as the temporary capital while Washington, D.C. was being built.
New York random facts
Chenango County is located in central New York State and has a rich history dating back to its early settlement by European colonizers in the late 18th century. The area was originally inhabited by the Iroquois Confederacy, specifically members of the Oneida and Tuscarora tribes.

In 1791, Chenango County was officially formed when it split off from Herkimer County. The county was named after the Chenango River, which flows through the area. The first settlement in the county was made in 1784 by a group of pioneers led by Colonel William Butler and Lieutenant Colonel John Lincklaen, who saw the area's potential for agriculture and trade.

During the 19th century, Chenango County experienced a period of rapid growth and development. The construction of the Chenango Canal in the 1830s played a significant role in boosting the local economy by facilitating trade and transportation. The county became known for its agricultural production, particularly in areas such as dairy farming and fruit cultivation.

In the late 1800s, Chenango County saw its industrial sector flourish, with the establishment of manufacturing industries such as textiles, shoes, and furniture. Towns like Norwich and Greene became centers of industry and commerce. The county also saw advancements in education, with the founding of Colgate University in Hamilton in 1817 and the establishment of other educational institutions throughout the area.

Today, Chenango County retains its agricultural heritage while embracing modern industries such as healthcare, education, and tourism. The county offers a blend of rural charm and historical significance, with numerous landmarks and cultural attractions that celebrate its past. From the Chenango County Historical Society to the annual Chenango County Fair, the region continues to honor its history while looking towards the future.

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

  • 1788 - Chenango County is established by New York State legislation.
  • 1791 - The village of Oxford is founded.
  • 1795 - Norwich is established as the county seat.
  • 1806 - The first courthouse is built in Norwich.
  • 1812 - Chenango Canal is completed, connecting the county to the Erie Canal.
  • 1847 - The Chenango County Agricultural Society is formed.
  • 1853 - The Utica, Chenango, and Susquehanna Valley Railroad opens.
  • 1870 - The Chenango County Fair is first held.
  • 1908 - Chenango County Historical Society is founded.
  • 1935 - Chenango Valley State Park is established.
  • 1975 - Earlville Opera House is placed on the National Register of Historic Places.
  • 1997 - The Chenango County Courthouse is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
  • 2010 - Sherburne Historic District is added to the National Register of Historic Places.