Historical Marker

Cedarville Civil War Monument

Historical marker location:
501 N Main St, Cedarville, Ohio
( Memorial is on Clifton Pike (Ohio Route 72) south of Varsity Drive, on the right when traveling south.)
Marker installed: 1916

The Harper Memorial

  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 was the birthplace of seven US presidents: Ulysses S. Grant, Rutherford B. Hayes, James A. Garfield, Benjamin Harrison, William McKinley, William Howard Taft, and Warren G. Harding.
Ohio random facts
Greene County, Ohio, has a rich history dating back to its establishment in 1803. The county was named after General Nathanael Greene, a renowned Revolutionary War hero who served under George Washington. Native American tribes, including the Shawnee, had inhabited the region for centuries prior to European settlement.

In the early 1800s, settlers began to arrive in Greene County, attracted by the fertile soil and opportunities for farming. The county quickly became a significant agricultural center, with crops such as corn, wheat, and tobacco playing a vital role in the local economy. The county seat, Xenia, was founded in 1803 and served as an important hub for commerce and transportation.

During the mid-19th century, Greene County saw significant growth and development. The arrival of railroads facilitated the transportation of goods, further boosting the local economy. The county also played a role in the Underground Railroad, with many abolitionists providing aid to freedom seekers passing through the region.

Greene County has a rich cultural history as well. The renowned African American poet Paul Laurence Dunbar was born in Dayton, which was once part of Greene County. Dunbar's work played a significant role in African American literature and his legacy is celebrated today.

In recent decades, Greene County has experienced continued growth and development. The county is home to numerous parks, scenic areas, and historical sites that attract visitors. The economy has diversified, with healthcare, education, and manufacturing becoming important sectors. Today, Greene County remains a vibrant community, proudly preserving its historic roots while embracing the future.

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

  • 1803 - Greene County is formed from portions of Hamilton and Ross Counties.
  • 1804 - Town of Xenia is established as the county seat.
  • 1851 - The Little Miami Railroad reaches Greene County, boosting economic growth.
  • 1900 - The Wright brothers, Orville and Wilbur, conduct experimental flights in Greene County.
  • 1948 - Wright-Patterson Air Force Base is established, becoming an important military installation.
  • 1999 - The Xenia Tornado strikes, causing significant damage to the city.