Historical Marker

Civil War Memorial

Historical marker location:
Ulster, Pennsylvania
Marker installed: 1898

  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
Bradford County, Pennsylvania, located in the northeastern part of the state, has a rich and diverse history that spans over two centuries. The county was named after William Bradford, a successful printer, and became an official county in 1810. Prior to European settlement, the area was inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Susquehannocks.

In the 18th century, European settlers began to establish communities in Bradford County, attracted by its fertile soil and proximity to the Susquehanna River. The 1760s saw the arrival of large groups of migrants from Connecticut seeking new land, leading to a conflict known as the Connecticut-Yankee-Pennamite Wars. Ultimately, Pennsylvania's authority was recognized, and settlers from various backgrounds contributed to the county's growth.

During the 19th century, the economy of Bradford County thrived, driven primarily by agriculture, logging, and the development of the natural gas industry. The discovery of vast natural gas reserves in the late 19th century brought rapid industrialization to the area. As a result, towns like Towanda and Sayre experienced significant growth, attracting businesses, industries, and a diverse workforce.

Bradford County played a crucial role in the nation's history, particularly during the Civil War. Soldiers from the county fought in various battles, and the county contributed resources to support the Union cause. Additionally, the region played a significant role in the Underground Railroad movement, providing a safe passage for enslaved individuals seeking freedom.

Today, Bradford County continues to be an important agricultural and industrial hub in Pennsylvania. The county's picturesque landscapes, historical landmarks, and cultural heritage attract tourists and visitors. As the county evolves and embraces modernization, it still cherishes its past, preserving the rich history that has shaped its identity.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Bradford County, Pennsylvania.

  • 1770s - Early European settlers begin to arrive in the area that would become Bradford County.
  • 1786 - Bradford County is officially established and named after William Bradford, the second U.S. Attorney General.
  • 1790 - The population of Bradford County is recorded at 2,817 residents.
  • 1800s - The county experiences rapid growth due to the timber, coal, and oil industries.
  • 1850 - The population of Bradford County exceeds 30,000 people.
  • 1862 - The Civil War affects Bradford County, with many residents serving in the Union Army.
  • 1871 - The town of Sayre is founded and becomes an important railroad hub in the region.
  • 1880s - The first natural gas wells in Pennsylvania are drilled in Bradford County, leading to the development of the local gas industry.
  • 1906 - The city of Towanda becomes the county seat of Bradford County.
  • 1920s - The Great Depression and declining industry impact the county, causing economic hardship for many residents.
  • 1960s - Construction of the Route 220 Interstate Highway and the construction of Interstate 86 in the 1990s significantly improve transportation in Bradford County.
  • 2000s - The county experiences growth in the natural gas industry due to the discovery of the Marcellus Shale formation, creating both economic opportunities and environmental concerns.