Historical Marker

Civil War Hospital

Historical marker location:
2795 Fairfield Road, Highland Township, Pennsylvania
( Marker is on Fairfield Road west of Knorr Road, on the right when traveling west.)
Marker installed: 1983

  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 Pennsylvania.
Philadelphia was once the temporary capital of the United States from 1790 to 1800, while Washington D.C. was being built.
Pennsylvania random facts
Adams County, Pennsylvania was established on January 22, 1800, as the 42nd county in the state. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Susquehannocks and the Lenape, until European settlers began arriving in the early 18th century. The county was named after John Adams, the second President of the United States.

During the American Revolutionary War, Adams County played a significant role in the fight for independence. The Battle of Gettysburg, fought from July 1-3, 1863, was a major turning point in the Civil War and one of the most significant battles in American history. It took place in Gettysburg, a borough in Adams County, and resulted in a Union victory with over 50,000 casualties on both sides. The battlefield is now a national park and a popular tourist attraction.

Agriculture has always been a vital part of Adams County's economy. The county is known for its rich farmland and fertile soil, making it a prime area for growing apples and other fruits. In fact, Adams County is known as the "Fruit Belt" of Pennsylvania and is famous for its apple orchards and apple products, such as apple cider and apple butter. The annual Adams County Apple Harvest Festival, held in October, celebrates this agricultural heritage.

In addition to agriculture, Adams County has a diverse economy, with industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, and tourism contributing to its growth. The county seat is located in Gettysburg, which is not only home to historic landmarks but also a vibrant downtown area with shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. Over the years, the county has experienced population growth and development while still maintaining its rural charm and historical significance.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Adams County, Pennsylvania.

  • 1736: Adams County is formed from York County and named after John Adams, the second President of the United States.
  • 1776: The Battle of Gettysburg takes place during the American Revolutionary War, marking a significant turning point in the war.
  • 1800s: The county's economy thrives with the growth of agriculture, particularly fruit cultivation, wheat farming, and dairy production.
  • 1863: The Battle of Gettysburg occurs during the American Civil War, leading to a devastating loss of life and damage to the area.
  • 1888: The Gettysburg National Military Park is established to preserve and commemorate the historic battlefield.
  • 1900s: The county experiences further growth in agriculture, tourism, and manufacturing industries.
  • 1962: The Appalachian Trail, a famous long-distance hiking trail, is completed and passes through Adams County.
  • 2008: Adams County celebrates its 250th anniversary with various events and commemorations.