Historical Marker

Venango County Civil War Monument

Historical marker location:
Franklin, Pennsylvania
( Memorial is on Liberty Street (U.S. 62) east of 12th Street, on the left when traveling east.)
Marker installed: 1866

  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 Liberty Bell, an iconic symbol of American independence, was originally cast in England in 1752 and cracked during its first use. It was recast twice in Philadelphia, and the current bell has been on display in Independence National Historical Park since 2003.
Pennsylvania random facts
Venango County, located in Northwestern Pennsylvania, has a rich history dating back to ancient times. The region was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Delaware and the Seneca. European exploration of the area began in the 1600s when French and English fur traders arrived in search of beaver pelts. The French claimed the territory and established Fort Machault in 1753, but it was later destroyed by Native American tribes.

In the mid-1700s, conflict arose between the British and the French over control of the region, leading to the French and Indian War. As a result of the Treaty of Paris in 1763, the British gained control of the area, and the region became part of the Province of Pennsylvania. Settlers began to arrive, and the county was officially established in 1800.

Venango County saw significant growth during the oil boom of the late 19th century. In 1859, oil was discovered in the area, leading to a rush of people and businesses. The county played a central role in the development of the oil industry, with several oil wells and refineries being established. The city of Oil City became the center of the industry, attracting workers and investors from all over the country.

Over the years, Venango County experienced economic ups and downs, with industries such as coal mining and manufacturing also playing a role in the local economy. Today, the county is known for its natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and historical significance. Venango County's history is preserved in several museums and historical sites, allowing visitors to learn about its past and appreciate its contributions to Pennsylvania's heritage.

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

  • 1800 - Venango County is established on March 12, becoming the 52nd county in Pennsylvania.
  • 1838 - The Borough of Franklin is incorporated on April 17.
  • 1866 - An extensive oil boom begins in the county, leading to rapid growth and wealth creation.
  • 1870 - The Borough of Oil City is incorporated on October 6.
  • 1912 - The Borough of Franklin becomes a third-class city on May 15.
  • 1937 - The Borough of Oil City becomes a third-class city on April 1.
  • 2005 - Venango County celebrates its bicentennial anniversary.