Historical Marker

Mifflin County Civil War Soldiers and Sailors Memorial

Historical marker location:
Lewistown, Pennsylvania
( Marker is at the intersection of Main Street and Market Street, in the median on Main Street.)
Marker installed: 1906

  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
Mifflin County, located in central Pennsylvania, has a rich history dating back to its establishment in 1789. It was named after Thomas Mifflin, the first Governor of Pennsylvania. Historically, the region was inhabited by Indigenous tribes, including the Susquehannock and Shawnee, who relied on the fertile land and abundant wildlife for sustenance.

During the 18th and 19th centuries, Mifflin County experienced rapid growth due to its proximity to important transportation routes like the Juniata River and the Pennsylvania Canal. The construction of the Pennsylvania Railroads in the mid-19th century further enhanced the county's connectivity and economic development. This expansion led to the establishment of numerous industries, including ironworks, sawmills, and textile factories.

Mifflin County played a significant role in the American Civil War. Many of its residents enlisted in the Union Army, and Bellefonte became a key hub for the recruitment and training of soldiers. The Battle of Lewistown, fought in 1863 during the Gettysburg Campaign, marked a significant event in the county's history. It was a minor engagement that resulted in the retreat of Confederate forces under Brigadier General Albert G. Jenkins.

In the 20th century, Mifflin County saw a decline in its industrial sector but witnessed growth in the agricultural and service industries. Today, it continues to be a vibrant community with a population that values its historical heritage. The county boasts several notable landmarks, including the McCoy House, the Union National Bank Building, and the Mifflin County Courthouse, each showcasing important aspects of the county's history and serving as reminders of its past achievements and contributions.

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

  • 1754 - Mifflin County was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Shawnee and Tuscarora.
  • 1755 - The area was first settled by European colonists.
  • 1789 - Mifflin County was officially formed and named after Thomas Mifflin, the first Governor of Pennsylvania.
  • 1798 - Lewistown, the county seat, was incorporated as a borough.
  • 1840s - The Pennsylvania Canal was constructed, passing through Mifflin County and bringing economic growth.
  • 1855 - The first railroad reached Lewistown, further improving transportation and trade in the region.
  • 1863 - During the Civil War, Mifflin County became an important staging area for Union troops.
  • 1882 - The Pennsylvania Railroad completed its mainline through Mifflin County, contributing to industrial development.
  • 20th century - Mifflin County's economy shifted from agriculture to manufacturing, with textile mills and other industries emerging.
  • 1970s - The county experienced population decline and economic challenges due to the decline of manufacturing.
  • Present - Mifflin County continues to be a rural area with a mix of agricultural and light industrial activity.