Historical Marker

Butler County Civil War Memorial

Historical marker location:
1401 S. Woodside Boulevard, Middletown, Ohio
Marker installed: 1902

  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.

Ohio played a key role in the development of the modern steel industry. Andrew Carnegie, one of the most famous industrialists of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, started his career in the steel industry in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, but his first major investment was in a steel mill in Braddock, Ohio.
Ohio random facts
Butler County, Ohio, located in the southwestern part of the state, has a rich history that dates back centuries. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Shawnee, Miami, and Delaware peoples. European settlement began in the late 18th century, with pioneers establishing farms and communities along the Great Miami River.

In 1803, Butler County was created and named after General Richard Butler, a hero of the Revolutionary War. The county quickly grew, attracting immigrants from Europe and becoming a center for agriculture and industry. Mills were built along the rivers, supporting the farming economy and contributing to the county's growth.

During the Civil War, Butler County played a significant role. Many of its residents fought in the Union Army, and the county was heavily involved in the Underground Railroad, helping enslaved people escape to freedom. Notable figures from Butler County include abolitionist John Van Zandt and Congressman John A. Gurley, who pushed for the abolition of slavery.

The county continued to thrive throughout the 20th century, adapting to changes in industry. The automotive industry became a major presence, with General Motors and Ford establishing plants in the county. Today, Butler County is home to a diverse range of industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, and agriculture. It also offers a vibrant arts and culture scene, with numerous museums, theaters, and music venues.

Overall, Butler County's history is characterized by its agricultural roots, industrial growth, and commitment to social progress. It remains an important county in Ohio, balancing its heritage with modern economic development and cultural offerings.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Butler County, Ohio.

  • May 1, 1803: Butler County is officially established as one of the original counties of the Northwest Territory.
  • Early 1800s: Pioneers settle in the region, drawn by the fertile land and opportunities for agriculture.
  • Early 1810s: The county experiences a period of rapid growth as more settlers arrive, leading to the establishment of new towns and communities.
  • August 24, 1814: The Battle of Brownstown takes place near what is now Trenton, when British forces led by Major-General Phineas Riall attack an American militia force.
  • 1817: Hamilton, the county seat of Butler County, is officially incorporated as a city.
  • Mid-1800s: The county becomes an important center for manufacturing, particularly in iron production, textiles, and paper mills.
  • Late 1800s: The arrival of railroads further accelerates economic growth in the county.
  • 1913: The Great Miami River floods and causes significant damage throughout Butler County.
  • Mid-1900s: The county continues to develop industrially, with an emphasis on automotive manufacturing.
  • Late 1900s: Service industries and technology companies become prominent in the county's economy.