Historical Marker

Oglevie Post 64 G.A.R. Civil War Memorial

Historical marker location:
201 W. Cross Street, Columbus Grove, Ohio
( Marker is on Liberty Street, on the left when traveling north.)

  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 University was established in 1870 and is one of the largest universities in the United States. Its football team, the Ohio State Buckeyes, has won eight national championships.
Ohio random facts
Putnam County is located in northwestern Ohio and was officially founded on April 1, 1820. However, the area had been inhabited by Native American tribes for thousands of years prior to European settlement. The county was named after Israel Putnam, a hero of the American Revolutionary War. The early settlers of Putnam County were mostly of German and Irish descent, attracted to the area by its fertile soil and abundant natural resources.

In its early years, agriculture played a significant role in the county's economy. Farmers grew crops such as corn, wheat, and soybeans, while also raising livestock. The arrival of the railroad in the mid-19th century further stimulated economic growth, making it easier for farmers to transport and sell their goods. In addition to agriculture, small industries began to emerge, including sawmills, gristmills, and brick factories.

One of the defining moments in Putnam County's history came during the American Civil War. Many residents volunteered to fight for the Union Army, contributing significantly to the war effort. The county experienced growth and development in the years following the war, with the establishment of schools, churches, and businesses.

In the 20th century, Putnam County continued to evolve. The discovery of oil and natural gas in the region led to increased industrialization and economic prosperity. The county also embraced modern technologies and amenities, such as electricity, telephones, and automobiles. Today, Putnam County maintains its strong agricultural traditions while also embracing diversification and growth in sectors such as manufacturing, healthcare, and education.

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

  • 1820: Putnam County was established on April 1, 1820, as the 52nd county in Ohio.
  • 1830: The first log courthouse was built, serving as the center of government activities.
  • 1834: The county seat was moved from Ottawa to Williamsburg, which was later renamed as Ottawa.
  • 1860s: The construction of railroads in the county boosted economic development and transportation.
  • 1888: The current courthouse, the third in the county's history, was completed in Ottawa.
  • 1920s: The county witnessed an increase in agricultural production and the establishment of more farms.
  • 1953: The first hospital, named Putnam Acres, was built in Ottawa to provide healthcare services.
  • 1960s: The county experienced growth in its manufacturing sector, attracting new industries.
  • 1980: The population of Putnam County reached its peak, with over 35,000 residents.
  • 2010s: Modern developments include the expansion of infrastructure, schools, and recreational facilities.