Historical Marker

Ilon Civil War Memorial

Historical marker location:
Ilon, New York
( Memorial is at the intersection of Otsego Street (New York State Route 51) and Morgan Street, in the median on Otsego 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 1777, the Battle of Saratoga took place in upstate New York and is considered a turning point in the American Revolution. It was the first major American victory and led to France recognizing the United States as a sovereign nation and entering the war as an ally.
New York random facts
Herkimer County, located in upstate New York, has a rich and fascinating history. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Mohawk and the Oneida. European settlement in the region began in the late 1700s when English and German settlers arrived. The county was officially established in 1791 and was named after General Nicholas Herkimer, a Revolutionary War hero.

During the 19th century, Herkimer County experienced rapid growth and development. The completion of the Erie Canal in 1825 brought economic prosperity to the region, with industries such as manufacturing, transportation, and agriculture thriving. The county also played a significant role in the American Industrial Revolution, with the production of textiles, iron, and paper becoming major industries.

Herkimer County is known for its key role in the American Revolutionary War. The Battle of Oriskany, fought in 1777, was a pivotal moment in the war, leading to significant losses on both the American and British sides. The battle site, located in the county, is now a national historic landmark and attracts visitors interested in learning about this important chapter in American history.

In the present day, Herkimer County continues to be a vibrant and diverse community. It offers a range of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, and camping in its picturesque natural landscapes. The county is also home to several colleges and universities, contributing to a thriving educational sector. With its rich history, natural beauty, and continued growth, Herkimer County remains a unique and welcoming area in upstate New York.

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

  • 1791 - Herkimer County is established as a county in the state of New York.
  • 1804 - The village of Herkimer is incorporated.
  • 1812-1814 - Herkimer County plays a role in the War of 1812.
  • 1834 - Utica and Schenectady Railroad is completed, improving transportation in the county.
  • 1862-1865 - Many residents of Herkimer County serve in the Union Army during the American Civil War.
  • 1906 - Construction of the Hinckley Dam is completed, creating the Hinckley Reservoir.
  • 1916 - The Herkimer County Historical Society is founded.
  • 1955 - The New York State Thruway is completed, providing easier access to the county.
  • 1998 - The Herkimer County Community College opens its doors.