Historical Marker

Civil War Veterans Monument

Historical marker location:
Norwalk, Ohio
( Memorial is at the intersection of West Main Street (Ohio Route 61) and Case Avenue, on the right when traveling west on West Main Street.)
Marker installed: 1924

Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address. 1961–1865

  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 first traffic light in the world was installed in Cleveland, Ohio, in 1914. It had only two colors, red and green, and was manually operated by a police officer.
Ohio random facts
Huron County, Ohio, located in the northeastern part of the state, has a rich and diverse history that spans centuries. The county was first inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Erie, Wyandot, and Ottawa tribes. European settlement began in the late 18th century, with pioneers from New England and Pennsylvania, and the county was officially established in 1809.

In the early years, Huron County experienced rapid growth due to its fertile land and proximity to Lake Erie. The county became a center for agriculture, commerce, and transportation. The construction of the Ohio and Erie Canal in the 1830s further facilitated trade and economic development.

The Civil War had a significant impact on Huron County, with many of its residents participating in the conflict. The county's soldiers fought in major battles and contributed to the Union war effort. Following the war, the county experienced a period of industrialization and increased prosperity.

In the 20th century, Huron County continued to evolve, adapting to changes in industry and technology. The county faced challenges during the Great Depression, but it recovered and experienced growth in the post-World War II era. Today, Huron County remains an agricultural hub, with the farming industry playing a central role in its economy. The county also boasts natural attractions, including pristine beaches, parks, and outdoor recreational opportunities.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Huron County, Ohio.

  • 1809 - Huron County is officially established in the state of Ohio.
  • 1817 - The first sawmill is built in the county, marking the beginning of the lumber industry.
  • 1831 - The first courthouse is constructed in Norwalk, serving as the county seat.
  • 1851 - The railroad arrives in Huron County, boosting transportation and trade.
  • 1859 - The Norwalk Seminary, later known as the Norwalk College for Young Ladies, is founded.
  • 1879 - The Rorick House, a historic mansion, is built in Monroeville.
  • 1893 - The Huron County Fair is established and becomes an annual event.
  • 1904 - The Norwalk Carnegie Library is built, providing public access to books and knowledge.
  • 1936 - Camp Avery Hand, a Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) camp, is opened in Fitchville.
  • 1954 - Norwalk High School is officially established.
  • 1968 - The Huron County Ohio Historical Society is founded to preserve the county's history.
  • 1976 - The Bicentennial Barn is painted in honor of the nation's bicentennial celebration.
  • 2001 - The North Coast Inland Trail, a recreational trail, is officially completed in Huron County.
  • 2015 - The Firelands Symphony Orchestra celebrates its 35th anniversary.