Historical Marker

Civil War Cannons

Historical marker location:
Defiance, Ohio
( Memorial is on Fort Street, on the left when traveling east.)

Fort Defiance

  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.
Ohio was a key battleground state in the 2004 presidential election, with the outcome ultimately decided by a margin of just over 118,000 votes.
Ohio random facts
Defiance County, OH has a rich and diverse history that spans back to the early 1800s. The county was officially established on February 12, 1845, and was named after Fort Defiance, a military fort established during the Northwest Indian War. The county was originally part of the larger Williams County until it was split off and formed its own jurisdiction.

The area that is now Defiance County was initially inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Shawnee, Miami, and Delaware. The arrival of European settlers led to conflicts between the Native Americans and the new settlers, resulting in the construction of Fort Defiance to provide protection for the settlers. The fort played a significant role during the War of 1812 and was later abandoned, but its legacy is preserved through a memorial park that stands in its place.

As the county developed, agriculture became a crucial part of the local economy. The fertile soil and favorable climate allowed for successful farming, with crops such as corn, wheat, and soybeans becoming staples in the region. Additionally, the county's location along the Maumee River played a vital role in transportation and trade, further boosting economic growth.

Defiance County has also been an industrial hub throughout its history. The discovery of natural gas reserves in the late 1800s led to a thriving oil and gas industry, attracting investors and workers from around the country. Other industries, such as manufacturing and healthcare, have also flourished, providing employment opportunities for the local population.

Today, Defiance County remains a vibrant community, focusing on preserving its historical roots while embracing modern advancements. With a mix of picturesque rural landscapes, thriving businesses, and a strong sense of community, Defiance County continues to evolve and thrive.

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

  • 1795 - The area that would eventually become Defiance County is ceded by the Native American tribes in the Treaty of Greenville.
  • 1805 - The county is established and named after Fort Defiance, a military fort built during the Northwest Indian War.
  • 1820 - The first courthouse is built in the county seat of Defiance.
  • 1836 - The Miami and Erie Canal is completed, which greatly boosts the local economy and leads to increased settlement.
  • 1851 - The town of Defiance is incorporated.
  • 1861-1865 - Many residents of Defiance County serve in the Union Army during the American Civil War.
  • 1872 - The Baltimore and Ohio Railroad completes a line through Defiance County, further enhancing transportation and trade.
  • 1898-1901 - Defiance County contributes soldiers to the Spanish-American War.
  • 1920s - The Great Depression leads to economic challenges for the county, but the construction of highways helps to spur growth.
  • 1940-1945 - Defiance County residents serve in World War II.
  • 1960s - The county experiences agricultural and industrial growth, thanks to advancements in technology and manufacturing.
  • 1990s - The area sees an expansion in retail and commercial development.