Historical Marker

Bethel Township Civil War Memorial

Historical marker location:
11545 Musselman Rd, New Carlisle, Ohio
( Memorial is at the intersection of Musselman Road and North Dayton- Lakeview Road (Ohio Route 235), on the right when traveling east on Musselman Road.)
Marker installed: 1899

  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 Ohio.
The Ohio River Valley was home to several Native American cultures before European settlement, including the Adena and Hopewell cultures. These cultures left behind many burial mounds and other archaeological sites that are now protected and preserved by the state of Ohio.
Ohio random facts
Clark County, located in southwestern Ohio, has a rich history that dates back to the early 1800s. The area was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Shawnee and Delaware peoples. European settlers began to arrive in the late 18th century, and the county was officially established in 1817.

The county was named after General George Rogers Clark, a prominent figure in the American Revolutionary War. His campaigns in the Northwest Territory played a significant role in securing lands in present-day Ohio. Springfield, the county seat, was founded in 1801 and quickly grew in importance as a trading and industrial center.

During the 19th century, Clark County experienced rapid industrialization. It became known for its manufacturing sector, particularly in areas such as agricultural machinery, automobiles, and appliances. Manufacturing giants like International Harvester and Crowell-Collier Publishing Company established operations in the county, contributing to its economic growth and development.

In addition to its industrial prowess, Clark County has a notable place in aviation history. The Wright brothers, Orville and Wilbur, were born and raised in the county and conducted their early experiments with flight in nearby Dayton. Today, the National Museum of the United States Air Force, located just east of Clark County, showcases the area's significance in aviation.

Over the years, Clark County has faced its share of challenges, including economic shifts and changes in industry. However, it remains a vibrant community with a diverse economy, a rich cultural heritage, and a commitment to preserving its history.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Clark County, Ohio.

  • 1817: Clark County is established on March 1, 1817.
  • 1818-1819: Springfield, the county seat, is surveyed and platted.
  • 1822: The first courthouse in Clark County is built.
  • Late 1820s: William Warder, an early settler, establishes a woolen factory.
  • Early 1830s: The county's first newspaper, the "Western Star," is established.
  • 1837-1839: The county's second courthouse is constructed.
  • Mid-19th century: Springfield becomes a center of manufacturing and commerce.
  • 1861-1865: Clark County contributes soldiers to the Union Army during the American Civil War.
  • Late 19th century: Electric streetcars are introduced in Springfield.
  • Early 20th century: Manufacturing industries thrive in the county.
  • 1917-1918: Soldiers from Clark County participate in World War I.
  • 1930s: The Great Depression causes economic hardship in the county.
  • 1940s-1950s: WWII and post-war economic boom lead to industrial growth.
  • Late 20th century: Decline in manufacturing leads to economic challenges.
  • 2005: The Clark County Heritage Center opens to preserve and exhibit the county's history.