Historical Marker

Civil War Memorial

Historical marker location:
540 North River Street, Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania
( Memorial is at the intersection of River Street and Maple Street, on the left when traveling north on River Street.)
Marker installed: 1918

  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.
The first successful commercially produced automobile in America was built in Philadelphia in 1895 by the Duryea brothers.
Pennsylvania random facts
Luzerne County, Pennsylvania has a rich history that spans centuries. The area originally belonged to the indigenous tribes, including the Susquehannock and Delaware tribes. The county was officially formed in 1786, named after Chevalier de la Luzerne, the French ambassador to the United States during the American Revolutionary War.

In the early 19th century, Luzerne County became a vital hub of industry due to its abundant natural resources. Coal mining emerged as the dominant industry, and the region soon became known as the "Anthracite Coal Capital of the World." It attracted immigrants from Europe, particularly Ireland and Eastern Europe, who sought employment in the booming coal mines.

However, the coal industry also brought significant social and labor challenges. In the late 19th century, labor disputes and strikes erupted, including the infamous 1902 Coal Strike led by the United Mine Workers of America. These events represented a struggle for fair working conditions and wages for the miners.

Throughout the 20th century, Luzerne County experienced economic fluctuations as the coal industry declined. Efforts were made to diversify the economy, leading to growth in manufacturing, healthcare, and educational sectors. Today, Luzerne County is a vibrant region with a diverse population and varied industries, while also preserving its historical roots through landmarks, museums, and festivals that celebrate its coal mining heritage.

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

  • 1786: Luzerne County is established on September 25.
  • 1808: The first courthouse is built in Wilkes-Barre.
  • 1811: The Battle of Tompkins Corners during the War of 1812 takes place in Luzerne County.
  • 1832: The Susquehanna River flood devastates Wilkes-Barre, causing significant damage and loss of life.
  • 1853: The Lehigh Valley Railroad begins operations in Luzerne County, enhancing transportation and commerce.
  • 1863: The Civil War Draft Riots occur in Wilkes-Barre, resulting in violence and unrest.
  • 1871: The first coal mine fire begins in Plymouth, which would become an ongoing issue in the county.
  • 1896: The Knox Mine Disaster occurs, claiming the lives of twelve miners and impacting the region's coal industry.
  • 1901: The Wilkes-Barre City Hall is completed, becoming an iconic landmark in the county.
  • 1959: Hurricane Diane causes severe flooding in Luzerne County, resulting in widespread destruction and loss of life.
  • 1972: The Agnes Flood, caused by Tropical Storm Agnes, leads to extensive flooding throughout the county.
  • 2006: Wilkes-Barre celebrates its 200th anniversary since its incorporation as a city.