Historical Marker

Hocking County Civil War Memorial

Historical marker location:
Logan, Ohio
( Marker is at the intersection of Main Street and Market Street, on the left when traveling west on Main Street.)
Marker installed: 1921

  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 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
Hocking County, Ohio, located in the southeastern part of the state, has a rich and diverse history that stretches back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Shawnee, Wyandot, and Mingo, who relied on the area's fertile land and abundant wildlife for sustenance. European settlers arrived in the late 18th century, establishing small farming communities and gradually transforming the landscape.

The county's name is derived from the Hocking River, which meanders throughout the region. In the 19th century, the county experienced rapid growth and prosperity, thanks in part to its access to transportation routes such as the Hocking Canal and the arrival of the Ohio and Erie Canal. This led to an increase in trade and commerce, with industries such as salt production and coal mining becoming prominent in the area.

Hocking County played a significant role in the Underground Railroad network during the mid-19th century. Many residents actively assisted escaped slaves on their journey to freedom, providing shelter and guidance along the way. The county's rugged terrain and dense forests provided ideal hiding places for fugitives, making it a crucial stop on the path to liberty.

In more recent times, Hocking County has become a popular tourist destination, known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. The establishment of Hocking Hills State Park in the 20th century has attracted visitors from all over the country, who come to explore the area's stunning caves, waterfalls, and hiking trails. Today, Hocking County continues to thrive as a vibrant community, preserving its historical past while embracing a promising future.

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

  • 1803: Hocking County is established as part of the Ohio Territory.
  • 1818: The first permanent settlers arrive in the area.
  • 1824: Hocking County is officially formed and named after the Hocking River.
  • 1839: The county seat is established in Logan, which becomes the largest city in the county.
  • 1850s: The construction of the Hocking Valley Canal boosts economic development in the county.
  • 1860s: Hocking County experiences growth due to coal mining and the railroad industry.
  • 1884: The Hocking Valley Railway is built, connecting the county to neighboring regions.
  • 1920s: Hocking County sees a decline in population and economic activity, partially due to the decline of the coal industry.
  • 1966: The Hocking Hills State Park is established, promoting tourism in the county.
  • Present: Hocking County offers a unique combination of natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and historical significance.