Historical Marker

Gilbert Gaul, Civil War Painter

Historical marker location:
Spencer, Tennessee
( Marker is on a Fall Creek Falls State Park road.)

  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 state bird of Tennessee is the northern mockingbird, and the state flower is the iris. The state tree is the tulip poplar, and the state animal is the raccoon.
Tennessee random facts
Van Buren County, located in the state of Tennessee, has a rich history that dates back centuries. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, particularly the Cherokee Nation. European settlers began moving into the region in the late 18th century, attracted by the fertile valleys and abundant natural resources.

Van Buren County was officially established in 1840 and named after the eighth president of the United States, Martin Van Buren. Early settlers engaged in subsistence farming, as agriculture was the primary economic activity at the time. The county gradually developed with the construction of roads, churches, schools, and small businesses.

During the American Civil War, Van Buren County was divided in its loyalties. While some residents supported the Union, others aligned with the Confederacy. The county experienced several skirmishes during the war, and a number of buildings were destroyed or damaged. In the years that followed, Van Buren County focused on recovering and rebuilding its economy.

In the 20th century, the county experienced changes and advancements. The construction of Center Hill Dam on the Caney Fork River in the 1940s brought new opportunities for recreation and hydroelectric power. Tourism became an increasingly important industry, as visitors were drawn to the county's scenic beauty and outdoor activities.

Today, Van Buren County continues to grow and thrive. It is known for its picturesque landscapes, including the scenic Fall Creek Falls State Park. The county's economy is diverse, with agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism as major contributors. Despite the passing of time, Van Buren County's history is celebrated and preserved, with numerous museums, historical sites, and festivals that showcase the area's rich heritage.

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

  • 1801 - Van Buren County is established as a county in the state of Tennessee.
  • 1806 - The first settlers, predominantly of Irish and Scottish descent, establish communities in the area.
  • 1812 - The county's first post office is established, named Spencer after one of the early settlers.
  • 1836 - The county is named after Martin Van Buren, the 8th President of the United States.
  • 1850s - With the advent of the railroad, the county experiences increased economic growth and development.
  • 1861-1865 - Van Buren County is deeply divided during the American Civil War, with residents supporting both the Union and the Confederacy.
  • 1890 - The Van Buren County Courthouse, a historic landmark, is constructed.
  • 1925 - The Van Buren County High School is established, providing education to the local students.
  • 1969 - Fall Creek Falls State Park, covering large portions of the county, is opened to the public.
  • 1980s - The county experiences a decline in population as industries shift away from the area.
  • 1990s - Efforts are made to promote tourism and outdoor recreation in the county to boost its economy.