Historical Marker

Greenfield Civil War Monument

Historical marker location:
750 N Washington St, Greenfield, Ohio
( Memorial can be reached from North Washington Street (Ohio Route 41) north of Massie Street, on the right when traveling north.)
Marker installed: 1907

James H. Freshour

  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 Ohio State Reformatory, located in Mansfield, Ohio, is a famous prison that has been featured in several movies, including "The Shawshank Redemption." It was built in 1886 and operated until 1990.
Ohio random facts
Highland County, Ohio is located in the southcentral part of the state and is rich with a vibrant history. The county was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Shawnee and Delaware. European settlers began arriving in the late 18th century, with the establishment of the first permanent settlement, New Market, in 1796. The early years were marked by conflicts between the settlers and Native American tribes, culminating in the Battle of Fallen Timbers in 1794, which led to the Treaty of Greenville and opened up the area for settlement.

In the early 19th century, Highland County experienced rapid growth and development. The construction of the Ohio and Erie Canal brought an influx of people and industries to the region, boosting the local economy. The county became known for its agricultural production, particularly wheat and corn. The county seat, Hillsboro, was founded in 1807, and it quickly became a hub for commerce and civic life in the area.

During the Civil War, Highland County played a significant role. It was a strong supporter of the Union cause, with many local men enlisting in the Union Army. The county also had its share of notable figures, including General William Starke Rosecrans, who commanded the Army of the Cumberland during the war. After the war, the county continued to grow and prosper, with the expansion of industries such as manufacturing, coal mining, and oil drilling.

In more recent times, Highland County has focused on preserving its rich history and promoting tourism. The Highland County Historical Society operates the Highland House Museum, which showcases artifacts and exhibits from the county's past. The area is also known for its natural beauty, with rolling hills, forests, and lakes providing opportunities for outdoor recreation. Today, Highland County remains a tight-knit community with a strong sense of pride in its heritage and a determination to embrace the future.

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

  • 1805: Highland County was established on May 1.
  • 1813: The first courthouse was built in Hillsboro, the county seat.
  • 1835: The first newspaper, Hillsborough Gazette, was published in Hillsboro.
  • 1840: The Cincinnati, Wilmington and Zanesville Railroad arrived in the county.
  • 1856: Construction of the Hillsboro Female Seminary was completed.
  • 1862: The Civil War prompted many men from Highland County to enlist in the Union Army.
  • 1878: The Highland County Historical Society was founded.
  • 1898: Hillsboro Electric Light and Power Company began operation.
  • 1910: The Highland County Courthouse was built in its current location.
  • 1938: The Rocky Fork Lake State Park was established.
  • 1957: The Highland County Airport opened.
  • 1973: Rocky Fork Lake was officially dedicated as a state park.
  • 1997: The Highland County Office Building was completed.
  • 2001: The Highland County Veterans Memorial was dedicated in Hillsboro.
  • 2015: Hillsboro celebrated its bicentennial.