Historical Marker

Civil War Memorial

Historical marker location:
Lewisburg, Pennsylvania
( Memorial is at the intersection of 3rd Street and University Avenue, on the right when traveling south on 3rd Street.)
Marker installed: 1901

  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.

Pennsylvania is a state of minds - and hearts.
Tom Ridge in Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood: A Visual History, 2020
Union County, Pennsylvania has a rich history that encompasses the early Native American tribes, the arrival of European settlers, and the development of an enduring community. The region was originally home to the Native American tribes of the Susquehannocks and the Delaware Indians, who relied on the fertile land and abundant forests for their livelihoods. However, the arrival of European settlers in the mid-18th century led to significant changes.

In 1749, the Province of Pennsylvania created Northumberland County, which included what is now Union County. However, as settlement continued to spread, the vast size of Northumberland County became impractical. Consequently, on March 22, 1813, Union County was formed from a portion of Northumberland County. It was named in honor of the newly formed union between the American colonies and the United States. The county's rich agricultural land attracted settlers who were mostly farmers, and with time, it became a distinctive and prosperous region.

Throughout its history, Union County witnessed significant growth and development. The establishment of the Pennsylvania Canal in the 1830s brought economic opportunities, enabling goods to be transported more efficiently between regions. The arrival of the railroads in the mid-19th century further fueled growth, connecting Union County to the broader national network of trade and transportation. These advancements led to the establishment of industries such as milling, manufacturing, and lumbering, diversifying the local economy.

Union County's strong agricultural heritage also played a crucial role in its history. The region's fertile soil and favorable climate made it ideal for farming, particularly for dairy farming and the production of crops such as corn, wheat, and oats. This agricultural legacy remains a significant part of the county’s identity, and Union County is still known for its thriving farming communities.

Today, Union County is a vibrant and growing community that celebrates its past while embracing the future. With a blend of historical sites, natural beauty, and a dedication to preserving its heritage, the county offers a charming glimpse into Pennsylvania's pioneering spirit and rich cultural history.

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

  • 1813 - Union County is formed from parts of Northumberland County.
  • 1815 - The town of New Berlin becomes the county seat.
  • 1821 - Lewisburg is incorporated as a borough.
  • 1846 - The Bucknell University is founded in Lewisburg.
  • 1855 - Millmont is incorporated as a borough.
  • 1864 - The Battle of New Market takes place during the American Civil War.
  • 1895 - The Lewisburg Area School District is established.
  • 1950 - The county's population reaches its peak at over 37,000 residents.
  • 1960 - The Union County Historical Society is formed.
  • 1970 - Hartleton is incorporated as a borough.
  • 1991 - The county celebrates its bicentennial.