Historical Marker

Bedford County Civil War Monument

Historical marker location:
Bedford, Pennsylvania
( Marker is at the intersection of Juliana Street and Penn Street, on the right when traveling south on Juliana Street.)
Marker installed: 1890

  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.
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Pennsylvania random facts
Bedford County, Pennsylvania, has a rich and diverse history that dates back to the 18th century. The area was inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Delaware and Shawnee, before European settlers arrived. In 1750, Bedford County was established as one of the original counties of Pennsylvania.

During the French and Indian War (1754-1763), Bedford County played a significant role as it was located on the western frontier. The county was involved in military campaigns and saw the construction of Fort Bedford for protection against Native American attacks. The war had a major impact on the region, shaping the future development of its settlements.

In the following years, Bedford County experienced rapid growth and development. It became an important transportation hub with the construction of the Bedford Turnpike and the Pennsylvania Canal, connecting it to major cities like Pittsburgh and Philadelphia. This allowed the county to flourish economically, attracting new settlers and industries.

In the 19th century, Bedford County played an active role in the American Civil War. Many residents volunteered to fight for both the Union and Confederate forces. The county suffered significant losses and witnessed battles and skirmishes, including the Battle of Gettysburg, which had a profound impact on the local community.

Today, Bedford County is known for its scenic beauty, historic sites, and outdoor recreational opportunities. Visitors can explore attractions such as Old Bedford Village, which showcases life in the 18th and 19th centuries, and the historic buildings in downtown Bedford. The county continues to celebrate its rich heritage, preserving its history while embracing modern advancements.

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

  • 1750: The area of present-day Bedford County is inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Shawnee and the Lenape.
  • 1758: Fort Bedford is established by the British during the French and Indian War.
  • 1771: Bedford County is officially founded on March 9, becoming one of the original counties of Pennsylvania.
  • 1795: The county seat is moved from Bedford Village to the newly established town of Bedford.
  • 1804: The Henry Bridge, the first bridge to cross the Raystown Branch of the Juniata River, is completed.
  • 1861-1865: Bedford County contributes soldiers to the Union Army during the American Civil War.
  • 1952: Construction of the Pennsylvania Turnpike begins, running through the southern part of Bedford County.
  • 1995: Shawnee State Park is established, providing outdoor recreational opportunities for residents and visitors.