Historical Marker

Pawling World War I and Civil War Memorial

Historical marker location:
Pawling, New York
( Marker is at the intersection of East Main Street and Charles Coleman Blvd, on the left when traveling west on East Main Street.)

  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 York.
In the mid-19th century, New York City was the largest slaveholding city in the United States, and the largest slave market was located on Wall Street.
New York random facts
Dutchess County, located in the Hudson Valley region of New York State, has a rich and diverse history that dates back centuries. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Wappinger and Mahican tribes, who lived off the land through farming and hunting.

In the early 17th century, the Dutch settled in the area and established trading posts along the Hudson River. The Dutch West India Company, seeking to establish a fur trade network, claimed the area as New Netherland. The name "Dutchess" itself is believed to be derived from the word "duchesa," meaning duchess, as a tribute to the Duchess of York, wife of James II, who was the future King of England.

During the American Revolution, Dutchess County played a significant role as a strategic base for both the British and Continental armies. The area witnessed several important military engagements, including the Battle of White Plains and the burning of Kingston by the British. The establishment of the New York State constitution in 1777 further solidified the county's importance.

In the 19th century, Dutchess County experienced a period of industrial growth, fueled by the construction of canals and railroads. The county became a major hub for manufacturing, with industries such as textiles, milling, and ironworks thriving. Poughkeepsie, the county seat, became a center for commerce and industry, boasting a bustling waterfront and a diverse population.

Today, Dutchess County is known for its picturesque landscapes, historic architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. It is home to several colleges and universities, including Vassar College and Marist College. The county also offers a wide range of recreational activities, such as hiking, boating, and exploring the numerous historical sites and landmarks that pay homage to its rich history.

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

  • 1683 - Dutchess County is established as one of the original 12 counties of New York province.
  • 1720 - The Beekman Patent is granted, leading to the settlement of the area.
  • 1775-1783 - Dutchess County plays a significant role in the American Revolutionary War.
  • 1785 - Poughkeepsie becomes the county seat.
  • 1800s - Dutchess County experiences industrial growth with the development of mills, factories, and the railroad.
  • 1900s - The county expands as more suburban communities are created.
  • 1930s - Franklin D. Roosevelt, a resident of Dutchess County, begins his political career and eventually becomes the 32nd President of the United States.
  • 1963 - The Taconic State Parkway is opened, providing easier access to and from Dutchess County.
  • Present - Dutchess County continues to thrive as a mix of suburban and rural communities, known for its scenic beauty and historical significance.