Waushara County Civil War Memorial
Historical marker location: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.
The county was officially established on February 15, 1851, and named after a Potawatomi chief, Wau-shaw-rah. The logging industry played a significant role in the early development of Waushara County, with vast forests covering the region. Logging camps and sawmills were established, bringing economic opportunities and attracting more settlers to the area.
As the logging industry waned in the late 19th century, agriculture emerged as the dominant economic activity in Waushara County. Farmers planted crops like corn and wheat and raised livestock, while also taking advantage of the county's picturesque lakes and streams for fishing and recreation. Over time, the county saw the growth of small rural communities and the establishment of schools, churches, and businesses.
Today, Waushara County continues to be known for its natural beauty and recreational opportunities. With over 200 lakes, including the popular Big and Little Hills Lakes, it attracts visitors and residents alike who enjoy boating, fishing, and other outdoor activities. The county also boasts a thriving tourist industry, with resorts, campgrounds, and golf courses attracting visitors from nearby cities and beyond. Waushara County's rich history and scenic landscapes make it a unique and cherished part of central Wisconsin.
Waushara County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Waushara County, Wisconsin.
- 1848 - Waushara County is established and organized as a county in the state of Wisconsin.
- 1851 - The first permanent settlement is established in the county, located near the present-day City of Berlin.
- 1853 - The first townships are created in Waushara County.
- 1855 - The County seat is established in the City of Wautoma.
- 1861-1865 - Many residents of Waushara County serve in the Civil War.
- 1869 - The Wisconsin Central Railroad reaches the County, initiating a period of growth and development.
- 1891 - The State Tuberculosis Sanatorium is established in Waushara County, bringing economic growth to the area.
- 1930s - The Great Depression impacts many communities, including Waushara County.
- 1962 - The construction of the Big Roche-A-Cri Dam creates a recreational area in the county.
- 2005 - The Waushara County Courthouse undergoes major renovations.
- 2010 - The population of Waushara County reaches approximately 24,496 residents.