Historical Marker

Civil War Artillery

Historical marker location:
Parkers Crossroads, Tennessee
( Marker can be reached from Wildersville Road, 0.2 miles Route 22, on the right when traveling east.)
Marker installed: 2015

  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 Tennessee.
The Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, Tennessee, was originally built as a church in 1892. It later became one of the most famous music venues in the world and is often referred to as the "Mother Church of Country Music."
Tennessee random facts
Henderson County, Tennessee, located in the western part of the state, has a rich history that stretches back to its establishment in 1821. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Chickasaw, prior to European settlement. The first European settlers arrived in the late 18th century, primarily from North Carolina and Virginia, and established small farming communities along the banks of the Tennessee River.

In the early years of its formation, Henderson County experienced rapid population growth and economic development. Agriculture, particularly cotton cultivation, became the dominant industry, with plantations and farms dotting the countryside. The growth of the cotton industry led to the introduction of slavery in the region, further shaping the social and economic landscape of Henderson County.

During the Civil War, Henderson County played a crucial role as a strategic transportation hub. The Battle of Lexington, fought in September 1862, was one of the most significant engagements in the county's history. Although a Confederate victory, the county experienced significant destruction and loss of life during the conflict.

After the Civil War, Henderson County entered a period of recovery and rebuilding. Freed slaves sought to create new lives for themselves, establishing schools and churches as centers of their newly won freedom. Economic diversification became a priority, and industries such as timber, livestock, and manufacturing began to emerge. The county's economy gradually shifted away from reliance on agriculture.

Today, Henderson County continues to thrive as a rural community with a rich agricultural heritage. The county is known for its picturesque landscapes and outdoor recreational opportunities, including fishing, hunting, and camping. Henderson County also cherishes its historical roots, with several museums, landmarks, and annual events celebrating its colorful past.

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

  • 1790s: European settlers began to arrive in the area that would become Henderson County, Tennessee.
  • 1821: Henderson County was officially established as a county in the state of Tennessee.
  • 1830s: The county experienced rapid population growth as more settlers arrived in search of fertile land.
  • 1840: The county seat was established in the town of Lexington.
  • 1861-1865: Henderson County, along with the rest of Tennessee, was divided by the American Civil War.
  • 1890s: The railroad arrived in the county, bringing economic development and increased connectivity.
  • 1930s: Henderson County, like the rest of the nation, was greatly affected by the Great Depression.
  • 1950s-1960s: The county experienced social and cultural changes as civil rights movements gained momentum.
  • 2000s: Henderson County continues to thrive with a diverse economy and a growing population.