Historical Marker

Perry County Civil War Memorial

Historical marker location:
New Bloomfield, Pennsylvania
( Marker is at the intersection of Carlisle St. and Main Street, in the median on Carlisle St..)

  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 famous physicist Albert Einstein briefly lived in Pennsylvania, taking a position at Princeton University in nearby New Jersey in 1933.
Pennsylvania random facts
Perry County, Pennsylvania, located in the central part of the state, is rich in history and has a diverse past. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Susquehannocks and the Lenapes. European settlers arrived in the early 18th century, establishing small farms and communities.

In the 19th century, Perry County experienced significant growth and development. The construction of the Pennsylvania Canal in the 1820s brought increased trade and commerce to the region. This infrastructure improvement led to the establishment of new towns, such as Marysville and New Buffalo, which quickly became important transportation hubs.

During the Civil War, Perry County played a significant role. Many residents enlisted in the Union Army, and the region saw several skirmishes and actions. The Battle of Landisburg in 1863, for example, resulted in Union victory and further solidified Perry County's involvement in the conflict.

In the 20th century, Perry County continued to evolve. The region experienced industrialization, with the establishment of factories and mills. However, the decline of these industries in the latter half of the century led to economic challenges. Today, Perry County retains its rural charm and continues to be a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, thanks to its beautiful natural landscapes and proximity to the Susquehanna River.

In summary, Perry County has a rich history that includes Native American settlements, the development of thriving communities during the canal era, involvement in the Civil War, and the challenges and changes brought about by industrialization and its subsequent decline. Throughout its history, Perry County has maintained its unique character, making it a fascinating area to explore and learn about.

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

  • 1820: Perry County is established on March 22.
  • 1821: County residents select New Bloomfield as the county seat.
  • 1828: First courthouse is constructed in New Bloomfield.
  • 1830: Population reaches 9,060 residents.
  • 1852: Pennsylvania Canal reaches Perry County, boosting economic activity.
  • 1859: Completion of the Pennsylvania Railroad further enhances transportation in the county.
  • 1878: County's first iron bridge is built over the Susquehanna River.
  • 1887: Land purchased for the county's second courthouse, which is completed in 1891.
  • 1936: Completion of the Susquehanna Trail connects Perry County to major routes to the north and south.
  • 1955: The construction of Howells Bridge replaces the old iron bridge, improving transport connections.
  • 1998: Perry County hosts the Pennsylvania Fireman's Association Convention for the first time.