Historical Marker

McPherson Post No 48 G.A.R. Civil War Memorial

Historical marker location:
2801 North Main Street, Miami, Oklahoma

  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 Oklahoma.
The Oklahoma City bombing in 1995 was the deadliest act of domestic terrorism in U.S. history. The bombing, which was carried out by Timothy McVeigh and Terry Nichols, killed 168 people and injured hundreds more.
Oklahoma random facts
Ottawa County, located in northeastern Oklahoma, has a rich and diverse history that goes back centuries. The area was originally inhabited by several Native American tribes, including the Quapaw and Seneca-Cayuga, who thrived in the region's fertile land and abundant natural resources. These tribes left behind a legacy of rich cultural traditions and customs that are still celebrated today.

In the early 19th century, Ottawa County came under the control of the United States government after the Louisiana Purchase. The area soon became an important trading post for fur trappers and explorers. The Missouri, Kansas, and Texas Railroad arrived in the late 1800s, opening up opportunities for settlement and further economic development in the county.

The discovery of lead and zinc deposits in the late 19th century ushered in a new era of prosperity for Ottawa County. This led to a boom in mining operations, attracting thousands of workers to the area. Towns such as Miami and Commerce sprang up as mining centers, fueling the local economy and attracting businesses and infrastructure development.

In the early 20th century, Ottawa County experienced significant growth and expansion. The county became known as the "Tri-State Mining District" due to its proximity to Kansas and Missouri. The mining industry boomed, and Ottawa County became one of the largest lead and zinc producers in the world. However, the decline of the mining industry in the 1950s led to economic decline and population loss in the county.

Today, Ottawa County continues to celebrate its rich history and heritage while looking towards the future. The county has diversified its economy, focusing on tourism, agriculture, and manufacturing. Ottawa County also boasts several historical sites and museums that provide visitors and residents with a glimpse into its fascinating past.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Ottawa County, Oklahoma.

  • 1836 - Ottawa County is established as part of the Cherokee Nation's lands in the Indian Territory.
  • 1862 - During the American Civil War, the area experiences significant conflict between Union and Confederate forces.
  • 1879 - The city of Miami is founded, becoming the county seat of Ottawa County.
  • 1891 - The Cherokee Nation is dissolved, and Ottawa County becomes part of the Oklahoma Territory.
  • 1906 - Ottawa County becomes part of the state of Oklahoma when it is admitted to the Union.
  • 1937 - The completion of the Pensacola Dam creates Grand Lake, a popular recreational area in the county.
  • 1940s-1950s - Ottawa County experiences economic growth due to mining activities, particularly in lead and zinc.
  • 1960s - The construction of Interstate 44 through the county boosts connectivity and facilitates transportation.
  • Today, Ottawa County continues to be a vibrant community, known for its natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and historical significance.