Historical Marker

Fulton County Civil War, Spanish-American War, and World War I Memorial

Historical marker location:
McConnellsburg, Pennsylvania
( Marker is at the intersection of 2nd Street (U.S. 522) and Market Street, on the right when traveling south on 2nd Street.)

  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.
Pennsylvania was home to the first commercially drilled oil well in the world, which was drilled in 1859 near Titusville.
Pennsylvania random facts
Fulton County, located in south-central Pennsylvania, has a rich and diverse history that dates back to its formation in 1850. Prior to its official establishment, the land that would become Fulton County was occupied by Native American tribes, including the Shawnee and the Seneca. European settlers arrived in the 18th century, gradually transforming the area through agriculture and the construction of mills along the streams and rivers.

The county was named after Robert Fulton, the renowned American inventor who was credited with developing the first commercially successful steamboat. Although Fulton himself had no direct connection to the area, his name was chosen as a tribute to his contributions to technological progress and as a symbol of the county's aspirations for growth and development.

Fulton County played a role in various significant events in American history. During the French and Indian War, the area served as a strategic location, as it was situated along the east-west route between Philadelphia and Pittsburgh. In the 19th century, the county became an important stop on the Underground Railroad, providing refuge and assistance to enslaved individuals seeking freedom in the northern states.

The county's economy has traditionally relied on agriculture, with farming being a dominant industry for many years. Over time, other industries such as manufacturing, mining, and tourism have also played a role in the local economy. Today, Fulton County continues to embrace its rural heritage while also striving for economic diversity and sustainable growth, making it an attractive destination for visitors and residents alike.

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

  • April 19, 1729: Fulton County was created from part of Cumberland County.
  • 1761: The first settlers arrived in the area.
  • April 19, 1861: The American Civil War began, and many men from Fulton County joined the Union Army.
  • 1887: The Borough of McConnellsburg was incorporated.
  • 1900: The population of Fulton County reached its peak at around 14,000.
  • 1928: The first paved road was constructed in the county.
  • 1937: Cowans Gap State Park was established.
  • 1963: The Pennsylvania Turnpike opened, providing easier access to Fulton County.
  • 1987: The Great Flood of 1987 caused significant damage to the county.
  • 2021: Fulton County continues to be a rural and peaceful area, known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities.