Historical Marker

Union Township Civil War Monument

Historical marker location:
128 E State St, Milford Center, Ohio
( Memorial is on Middleburg-Plain City Rd (County Route 57), on the left when traveling east.)
Marker installed: 1873

The Original Monument

  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.

Ohio is home to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, located in Cleveland. It was established in 1983 and inducted its first class of musicians in 1986.
Ohio random facts
Union County, Ohio, located in the Midwestern United States, has a rich and diverse history dating back to the early 1800s. The area was first settled by Europeans in the late 1700s and early 1800s, primarily by immigrants from the Eastern United States, Scotland, and Ireland. The county was officially established on April 1, 1820, making it one of the oldest counties in Ohio.

During its early years, Union County developed as a primarily agricultural community, with farming being the main industry. The fertile soil and favorable climate allowed for the production of a wide range of crops, including grains, fruits, and vegetables. The construction of the Miami and Erie Canal in the 1830s further boosted the local economy, as it provided a convenient transportation route for goods and people.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Union County experienced significant growth and development. The railroad industry played a key role in this expansion, with the establishment of railroad lines connecting the county to other parts of the state. This facilitated the transport of agricultural products and encouraged the growth of manufacturing and industrial sectors. Some notable industries during this time included farm machinery manufacturing, textile mills, and cheese factories.

In the present day, Union County continues to thrive as a diverse and vibrant community. While agriculture still plays a significant role in the county's economy, other industries such as healthcare, education, and technology have also emerged. The county is known for its excellent schools, charming small towns, and beautiful natural landscapes. It remains a place where residents can enjoy a blend of rural and suburban living, with easy access to the amenities of nearby metropolitan areas.

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

  • 1820: Union County is officially established as a county in the state of Ohio.
  • 1839: The first courthouse is constructed in Union County.
  • 1861-1865: Union County residents actively participate in the American Civil War.
  • 1874: The first railroad line, the Ohio Central Railroad, is completed in Union County.
  • 1927: The infamous Tri-State Tornado passes through Union County, causing significant damage.
  • 1936-1938: The Works Progress Administration constructs several infrastructure projects in Union County, including roads and public buildings.
  • 1954: Honda Motor Co., Ltd. is founded in Japan, eventually leading to the establishment of the Honda Motorcycle Plant in Union County in 1979.
  • 1979: Honda begins production at the Marysville Motorcycle Plant, becoming a major employer in Union County.
  • 1990: Honda starts car production in Marysville, bringing further economic growth to Union County.
  • 2004: Honda opens the East Liberty Auto Plant in Union County, further expanding their presence in the region.
  • Present: Union County continues to thrive as a center for manufacturing and agriculture, with a growing population and economy.