Historical Marker

Civil War Soldiers' and Sailors' Memorial

Historical marker location:
312 Washington Street, Ogdensburg, New York
( Memorial is on State Street north of Washington Street, on the right when traveling north.)
Marker installed: 1905

"The Spirit of Liberty"

  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 Empire State Building, which was completed in 1931, was built during the Great Depression and was funded entirely by private investors. At the time of its completion, it was the tallest building in the world.
New York random facts
St. Lawrence County, located in northern New York, has a rich and varied history that dates back thousands of years. The earliest known inhabitants of the area were Native American tribes, particularly the Mohawk and Iroquois Confederacy, who relied on the region's abundant natural resources for sustenance and trade. European explorers and fur traders began arriving in the 17th century, with Samuel de Champlain being one of the first to visit the area in 1609.

The area that is now known as St. Lawrence County was officially established in 1802 when it was carved out of previously established counties. The county was named after the St. Lawrence River, which flows along its northern border. During the early 19th century, the construction of the Erie Canal and the development of the Great Lakes transportation system brought significant economic growth to the region. The county became a prominent hub for trade, agriculture, and manufacturing.

St. Lawrence County played a significant role in the development of the United States during the War of 1812. The region saw numerous military engagements, including the Battle of Ogdensburg in 1813. The county's strategic location along the St. Lawrence River made it an essential supply route and defensive position for both the American and British forces.

In the 20th century, St. Lawrence County experienced further economic growth with the expansion of industries such as mining, forestry, and tourism. The county is home to the popular Adirondack Park, a vast protected wilderness area known for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. Today, St. Lawrence County continues to thrive as a vibrant community that celebrates its diverse history and embraces its natural resources.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of St. Lawrence County, New York.

  • 1791: St. Lawrence County is established as an original county of the state of New York.
  • 1802: The county seat is established in the village of Ogdensburg.
  • 1828: Construction of the St. Lawrence Canal begins.
  • 1831: Completion of the St. Lawrence Canal, facilitating transportation and commerce in the region.
  • 1850: The Talcottville-Two Taverns Road is completed, providing a major transportation route through the county.
  • 1862: The St. Lawrence County Fair is first held, becoming an annual tradition in the region.
  • 1887: Formation of the Adirondack Park, encompassing a portion of St. Lawrence County.
  • 1906: The St. Lawrence Power Dam is completed, harnessing the power of the St. Lawrence River.
  • 1941-1945: St. Lawrence County residents actively participate in World War II.
  • 1960s: Development of the St. Lawrence Seaway, opening new opportunities for international shipping and trade.
  • 1980s: Economic decline in the region due to restructuring of industries.
  • Present day: St. Lawrence County continues to be a hub for outdoor recreational activities, tourism, and education.