Historical Marker

Site of a Confederate Powder Mill

Marker installed: 1936
Marker size: 1936 Centennial - Subject Marker (gray granite)

Erected in 1862 by William Rowen. On April 29, 1863 it was destroyed by an explosion and its owner killed. Also killed was Joshua G. Phillips

  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.

As one of the most visible programs of the Texas Historical Commission (THC), historical markers commemorate diverse topics in Texas history, including: the history and architecture of houses, commercial and public buildings, religious congregations, and military sites; events that changed the course of local and state history; and individuals who have made lasting contributions to the state, community organizations, and businesses.

mills - textile, fiber, gristmills, cotton gins Civil War military topics
In the late 19th century, Texas became known for its cattle drives, in which cowboys would move herds of cattle from Texas to railheads in Kansas and other northern states. The cattle drives were dangerous and difficult work, but they played a key role in the development of the American cattle industry.
Texas random facts
Ellis County, located in the state of Texas, has a rich and diverse history that dates back to the early 19th century. The county was established on December 20, 1849, and was named after Richard Ellis, president of the convention that declared Texas' independence from Mexico.

The area that is now Ellis County was initially inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Caddo and Comanche. However, in the mid-1830s, European settlers began to arrive and establish homesteads in the region. These settlers were drawn to the fertile land and opportunities for farming and ranching.

During the Civil War, Ellis County was deeply divided, with residents supporting both the Union and the Confederacy. The county was the site of several skirmishes and raids, and endured a significant amount of destruction as a result. After the war, Ellis County began to rebuild and experienced a period of growth and development.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Ellis County saw the rise of industries such as cotton farming, cattle ranching, and oil production. The arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s further fueled the county's economic growth. Today, Ellis County remains an agricultural powerhouse, with a strong presence in the cotton and cattle industries, and is also home to a diverse range of businesses and thriving communities.

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

  • 1849 - Ellis County is established from Navarro County.
  • 1850 - Waxahachie is selected as the county seat.
  • 1853 - The county courthouse is built.
  • 1881 - The Texas Central Railroad reaches Waxahachie, boosting the local economy.
  • 1883 - Southwestern Asylum for the Insane (now known as Terrell State Hospital) opens in Terrell, impacting the county's development.
  • 1889 - A fire destroys the Ellis County courthouse.
  • 1895 - A new courthouse is completed, designed by architect J. Riely Gordon.
  • 1921 - An oil boom begins in Ellis County, leading to increased prosperity.
  • 1934 - The Federal Correctional Institution is established in Seagoville.
  • 1942 - The Naval Air Station is established in Waxahachie during World War II.
  • 1969 - Navarro College opens a campus in Waxahachie.
  • 1987 - Bluebonnet Festival debuts in Ennis, becoming an annual celebration.
  • 2007 - Baylor Scott & White Medical Center opens in Waxahachie, providing advanced healthcare services to the county.