Historical Marker

Greene County Civil War

Historical marker location:
108 South Main Street, Greeneville, Tennessee
( Marker is at the intersection of South Main Street (U.S. 11/321) and Depot Street on South Main Street.)

  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.

Tennessee is where I belong, and this is where I'll stay.
Elvis Presley in Billboard magazine
Greene County, located in eastern Tennessee, has a rich and diverse history that dates back to the early 18th century. The region was originally inhabited by Cherokee Native Americans until European settlers began to arrive in the mid-1700s. In 1783, Greene County was established and named after Revolutionary War General Nathanael Greene.

During the American Civil War, Greene County played a significant role, witnessing several battles and skirmishes. It was divided between Union and Confederate sympathizers, leading to tensions and conflicts. The Battle of Blue Springs, fought in 1863, was one of the most significant engagements in the area, as Union forces sought to gain control of the strategic railroad line.

Following the war, Greene County experienced a period of reconstruction and growth. The completion of the railroad in the late 19th century facilitated trade and industrial development. Agriculture, particularly tobacco farming, became a vital part of the local economy. The county also saw the rise of coal mining, which brought prosperity and job opportunities.

In the 20th century, Greene County underwent further changes as technology advanced. The establishment of the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) in the 1930s brought electricity to rural areas and stimulated economic development. The construction of Douglas Lake in the 1940s further transformed the region, providing a recreational hub for boating, fishing, and tourism.

Today, Greene County continues to thrive with a mix of agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism. With its beautiful natural landscapes, historical sites, and a strong sense of community, Greene County remains a place of both historical significance and modern growth.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Greene County, Tennessee.

  • 1783: Greene County is established in the State of Franklin, one of the earliest attempts at creating a separate territory from North Carolina.
  • 1785: The State of Franklin collapses, and Greene County becomes part of the Southwest Territory.
  • 1796: Tennessee becomes a state, and Greene County is incorporated within its boundaries.
  • 1810: The county seat is established in the town of Greeneville.
  • 1811: Battle of Huffs Ferry takes place during the War of 1812 in present-day Greene County.
  • 1825: The Andrew Johnson Homestead, the birthplace and family home of the future U.S. President, is constructed in Greeneville.
  • 1861: The Civil War begins, and Greene County sees significant military activity as Union and Confederate forces vie for control.
  • 1864: The Battle of Blue Springs is fought in Greene County, resulting in a Union victory and securing East Tennessee for the Union Army.
  • 1904: The Carnegie Library is established in Greeneville, providing educational resources to the community.
  • 1941: The Greeneville Army Air Base is constructed during World War II, serving as a training facility for bomber crews.
  • 1982: The Greene County Partnership is established as an economic development organization, promoting business growth in the county.