Historical Marker

Civil War in Tennessee

Historical marker location:
Tiftonia, Tennessee
( Marker can be reached from State Highway 24, 1.5 miles east of Exit 169 (Highway 299), on the right when traveling east.)
Marker installed: 2011

The Fight for Lookout Mountain

  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.

The Oak Ridge National Laboratory, located in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, played a crucial role in the development of the atomic bomb during World War II. It was also a key site for nuclear research during the Cold War.
Tennessee random facts
Hamilton County, Tennessee has a rich history dating back to prehistoric times. The area was originally home to Native American tribes, including the Cherokee, who inhabited the region for centuries. In the 18th century, European settlers began to arrive, leading to conflict with the indigenous populations. The Treaty of 1819 forced many Cherokees to relocate, clearing the way for white settlement in Hamilton County.

Hamilton County was officially established in 1819, named after founding father Alexander Hamilton. The county's early economy revolved around agriculture, with cotton being the primary crop. The construction of various transportation routes, such as the Tennessee River and railroad networks, helped fuel the region's growth. Chattanooga, the county seat, became a major transportation hub, connecting the East and the Midwest.

During the Civil War, Hamilton County witnessed significant military engagements. The Battle of Chickamauga in 1863 was a pivotal moment, resulting in Confederate forces gaining control of Chattanooga temporarily. However, Union forces subsequently reclaimed the city and established it as a leading supply base for their campaigns. Chattanooga's strategic location made it a target for both Confederate and Union forces throughout the war.

In the 20th century, Hamilton County experienced rapid industrialization and urbanization. Manufacturing industries, including steel and textile mills, flourished in the region. With its strong transportation infrastructure and access to natural resources, the county became a major industrial center. The city of Chattanooga transformed into a thriving economic and cultural center, known for its scenic beauty, vibrant arts scene, and outdoor recreational opportunities.

Today, Hamilton County continues to be a diverse and dynamic community, blending its historical significance with modern development. The county's rich history, combined with its natural landscapes and urban amenities, make it an attractive place to live, work, and visit.

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

  • 1819: Hamilton County was established on October 25, 1819, from the Cherokee Indian lands.
  • 1839: Chattanooga became the county seat of Hamilton County on December 30, 1839.
  • 1861-1865: During the American Civil War, Hamilton County was occupied by both Union and Confederate forces.
  • 1904: The Chattanooga Choo Choo train depot was built, becoming an iconic symbol of the city.
  • 1919: The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) was established, bringing economic development and flood control measures to the region.
  • 1970s: Hamilton County experienced rapid industrial growth, attracting major manufacturing companies and contributing to economic expansion.
  • 1980: The Tennessee Aquarium, one of the largest freshwater aquariums in the world, opened in downtown Chattanooga.
  • 1991: The Walnut Street Bridge, a historic pedestrian bridge, was renovated and reopened as a popular gathering spot.
  • 2000s: Hamilton County became a hub for technology and innovation, with the establishment of the Chattanooga Gigabit Community, providing high-speed internet to residents and businesses.
  • 2019: Hamilton County celebrated its bicentennial, marking 200 years of history and progress.