Historical Marker

Pickaway County Civil War Memorial

Historical marker location:
Circleville, Ohio
( Marker is at the intersection of Court Street and Reber Avenue, on the right when traveling south on Court 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.

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Pickaway County, Ohio has a rich and vibrant history that stretches back centuries. The area was initially inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Shawnee and Wyandot people. In the late 18th century, European settlers began to arrive, attracted by the fertile land and abundant natural resources. The county was officially established in 1810 and derived its name from a Native American word meaning "clear water."

During the early years, agriculture played a crucial role in the county's development. The fertile soil allowed for successful farming, with crops such as corn, wheat, and tobacco becoming major products. The arrival of the Ohio and Erie Canal in the mid-19th century further stimulated economic growth by providing a transportation route for goods.

Pickaway County also played an essential role in the Underground Railroad, a network of secret routes and safe houses that helped escaped slaves find freedom in the North. Numerous abolitionists and sympathetic residents provided shelter and assistance to individuals seeking liberation. The county was a pivotal stop on the journey to Canada, where escaped slaves could live freely.

In more recent years, Pickaway County experienced industrial growth and modernization. The construction of the Scioto Valley Railroad in the late 19th century enabled the transportation of goods to larger markets. The county also became known for its manufacturing industry, including the production of farm equipment and textiles. Today, Pickaway County continues to thrive as a diverse community with a strong agricultural base, while also embracing advanced industries, vibrant arts and culture, and a commitment to preserving its historical heritage.

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

  • 1803: Pickaway County is established on March 1, 1803, as the 26th county in the state of Ohio.
  • 1810: The county seat is established in the town of Circleville.
  • 1825: The Ohio and Erie Canal is completed, bringing increased transportation and economic opportunities to Pickaway County.
  • 1850: The population of Pickaway County reaches over 20,000 as agriculture becomes a major industry.
  • 1861-1865: Many residents of Pickaway County serve in the Union Army during the American Civil War.
  • 1879: The Circleville Pumpkin Show, now one of the largest festivals in Ohio, is first held.
  • 1901: The first oil well is drilled in Pickaway County, leading to a boom in the oil industry.
  • 1929-1940: The Great Depression and the Dust Bowl impact the economy of Pickaway County, causing hardship for many residents.
  • 1995: The Pickaway County Airport is opened, providing improved air transportation options.
  • 2020: Pickaway County celebrates its 217th anniversary with a diverse economy and a growing population.