Historical Marker

Civil War Earthworks

Historical marker location:
204 Sentinel Drive, Winchester, Virginia
( Marker can be reached from Fortress Drive, 0.1 miles north of North Frederick Pike (U.S. 522), on the right when traveling north.)

"Where they are compelled by nature ... to resort to it"

  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 Virginia.
The Pentagon, the headquarters of the United States Department of Defense, is located in Arlington, Virginia.
Virginia random facts
Frederick County, Virginia has a rich history dating back to its establishment in 1743. Originally part of Orange County, Frederick County was named in honor of Frederick Louis, Prince of Wales, the eldest son of King George II. The county expanded over the years, and it played a significant role in the American Revolutionary War.

During the Revolutionary War, Frederick County was an important center of activity. It was home to the strategic Winchester and served as a gathering place for soldiers, supplies, and strategists. The county witnessed several key battles, including the Second Battle of Winchester in 1863 during the Civil War. The war left scars on the region, but Frederick County played a crucial role in shaping the outcome.

In the late 19th century, Frederick County experienced a period of growth and prosperity. With the arrival of the railroad in the 1850s, the county's economy boomed as trade and transportation flourished. Agriculture, particularly the cultivation of wheat and apples, became important industries. The growth of Winchester, the county seat, led to the development of schools, churches, and other civic institutions.

In the 20th century, Frederick County continued to evolve. It experienced a surge in population due to increased industrialization and urbanization. The region became known for its manufacturing sector, especially in the areas of textiles, wood, and metal products. Today, Frederick County retains its historical charm with many preserved buildings and landmarks, while also embracing modern developments and a diverse economy.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Frederick County, Virginia.

  • 1738: Frederick County, Virginia is established by the Virginia General Assembly.
  • 1753: Winchester becomes the county seat of Frederick County.
  • 1761: The region experiences significant growth due to an influx of settlers from Pennsylvania and Maryland.
  • 1775-1783: Frederick County residents actively participate in the American Revolutionary War.
  • 1780s: A judicial district is established in Winchester, further solidifying its importance within the county.
  • 1836: The town of Stephens City is incorporated within Frederick County.
  • 1861-1865: Frederick County witnesses the impact of the American Civil War, including the Battle of Cedar Creek.
  • 1871: Winchester and Frederick County become separate political entities.
  • 1952: The construction of Interstate 81 begins, providing enhanced transportation access to Frederick County.
  • Present: Frederick County continues to grow in population and economic development.