Historical Marker

Civil War In Tennessee

Historical marker location:
10749 I-81, Bristol, Tennessee
( Marker is on Interstate 81, 1 mile south of U.S. 58, on the right when traveling south.)

Taking the Great Valley

  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 world's largest freshwater aquarium is located in Chattanooga, Tennessee. The Tennessee Aquarium is home to more than 12,000 animals from over 800 species.
Tennessee random facts
Sullivan County, located in the northeastern part of Tennessee, has a rich history dating back to the late 18th century. The area was initially inhabited by the Cherokee and Shawnee tribes before European settlers arrived in the late 1700s. The first permanent settlement, known as Fort Robinson, was established near present-day Kingsport in 1771.

During the American Revolutionary War, Sullivan County played a vital role as a gateway for western exploration and expansion. The settlers faced numerous difficulties, including conflicts with Native American tribes and lack of infrastructure. However, following the war, the county experienced rapid growth and development, attracting many pioneers.

In the 19th century, Sullivan County became a hub of industry and commerce in East Tennessee. Kingsport, incorporated in 1822, boomed due to its location along the Holston River and proximity to the railway. The construction of a major steel mill and the establishment of Eastman Chemical Company further fueled economic growth in the county.

The 20th century brought significant changes to Sullivan County. With the advent of the automobile, tourism became an essential industry. Renowned for its natural beauty, the county's mountainous landscapes and proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains attracted visitors from across the country. Sullivan County also witnessed significant growth in the education, healthcare, and manufacturing sectors. Today, the county continues to thrive as a vibrant community, combining a rich historical heritage with modern amenities.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Sullivan County, Tennessee.

  • 1761 - Sullivan County is established as part of the Province of North Carolina
  • 1776 - Sullivan County becomes part of the newly formed State of Franklin
  • 1784 - State of Franklin collapses and Sullivan County returns to North Carolina
  • 1789 - Sullivan County is transferred to the Southwest Territory
  • 1796 - Tennessee becomes a state, and Sullivan County is included in its boundaries
  • 1861-1865 - Sullivan County plays a significant role in the American Civil War
  • 1910 - Bristol is established as a twin city spanning Tennessee and Virginia in Sullivan County
  • 1969 - The Bristol Motor Speedway opens in Sullivan County
  • today - Sullivan County continues to be an important area for commerce, tourism, and outdoor activities