Historical Marker

Civil War Soldiers Monument

Historical marker location:
Mount Vernon, Ohio
( Marker is on Main Street (State Highway 3) near High Street (U.S. 36), in the median.)
Marker installed: 1877

  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.
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
Knox County, Ohio, located in the northeastern part of the state, has a rich and varied history dating back to its settlement in the early 1800s. Originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Delaware and Shawnee, the area was first explored by Europeans in the late 1700s. In 1808, Knox County was established, named after Henry Knox, the first Secretary of War under President George Washington.

The county's early years were focused on agriculture, with settlers primarily engaged in farming and raising livestock. The development of transportation infrastructure, including the completion of the Ohio and Erie Canal and the arrival of the railroad in the mid-1800s, helped stimulate economic growth and increase the county's connectivity to other regions.

During the Civil War, Knox County played a significant role as many of its residents enlisted in the Union Army. The county sent hundreds of soldiers to fight in notable battles such as Gettysburg and Antietam, and casualties were high. Post-war industrialization saw the emergence of flour milling, glass manufacturing, and oil production in the county. These industries brought jobs and prosperity to the area.

In the 20th century, Knox County continued to evolve with the growth of education, healthcare, and the arts. The county is home to Kenyon College, a prestigious liberal arts institution founded in 1824. The college has had a significant impact on the community and continues to attract students from around the world. Today, Knox County retains its rural charm while also embracing modern developments, making it a diverse and vibrant community.

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

  • Knox County was first settled in the late 18th century by European settlers.
  • In 1808, Knox County was established and named after Henry Knox, the first Secretary of War in the United States.
  • The village of Mount Vernon was founded in 1805 and became the county seat in 1808.
  • During the 19th century, Knox County saw significant growth in population and development, with the construction of railroads and the establishment of industries such as manufacturing and agriculture.
  • In 1860, the famous Knox County native, John W. Armstrong, became the first American to use a typewriter.
  • During the early 20th century, Knox County experienced both economic prosperity and hardship, with the effects of World War I and the Great Depression.
  • In the mid-20th century, Knox County saw further development and modernization, including the establishment of higher education institutions such as Mount Vernon Nazarene University.
  • Today, Knox County continues to thrive and is known for its rich history, scenic beauty, and vibrant communities.