Historical Marker

Meigs County Civil War Memorial

Historical marker location:
100 W. 2nd Street, Pomeroy, Ohio
( Marker is at the intersection of 2nd Street and Mulberry Avenue, on the left when traveling east on 2nd Street.)

  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 Cleveland Museum of Art, located in Cleveland, Ohio, is one of the largest and most prestigious art museums in the United States. It has a collection of more than 61,000 works of art, including works by Pablo Picasso, Vincent van Gogh, and Rembrandt.
Ohio random facts
Meigs County, Ohio, is located in the southeastern part of the state along the Ohio River. The area that would eventually become Meigs County was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes including the Shawnee and Wyandot. European settlers began to arrive in the late 18th century, with the area officially being established as Meigs County in 1819.

The county was named in honor of Return Jonathan Meigs, who was an American military officer and politician. Meigs had served in the American Revolutionary War and later became a United States Senator. The county quickly grew as settlers established farms and businesses along the fertile river valleys.

During the 19th century, Meigs County became an important center for coal mining and salt production. The discovery of large salt deposits led to the establishment of numerous salt furnaces and processing facilities. This industry provided steady employment for many residents and played a significant role in the county's economy.

In addition to salt and coal, Meigs County also had a thriving riverboat industry. The Ohio River served as a transportation route, allowing for the easy movement of goods and people to and from the county. Meigs County was a popular stop for riverboats, which brought both travelers and trade opportunities.

Over the years, Meigs County has faced economic challenges due to the decline of industries like coal and salt production. However, the county remains rich in natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Today, visitors can enjoy hiking and camping in the Wayne National Forest, exploring the historic river towns, and taking in scenic views along the Ohio River. Meigs County continues to be a place where history and nature meet.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Meigs County, Ohio.

  • 1819 - Meigs County was established on April 1.
  • 1833 - The town of Pomeroy was founded.
  • 1841 - The first courthouse was constructed in Pomeroy.
  • 1848 - The Ohio and Virginia Railway reached Pomeroy.
  • 1884 - The Ohio River flood caused significant damage in Meigs County.
  • 1944 - The Meigs County Courthouse burned down in a fire.
  • 1967 - The Silver Bridge, connecting Meigs County with Gallia County, collapsed, resulting in the loss of 46 lives.
  • 1975 - The Forked Run State Park was established in Meigs County.
  • 1986 - The Meigs County Historical Society Museum was opened.
  • 1997 - The Meigs County Veterans Memorial was dedicated.