Historical Marker

The Civil War in the South Branch Valley

Historical marker location:
Mechanicsburg, West Virginia
( Marker is on Mill Ridge Park Road, on the right when traveling east.)

  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.

The world's largest sycamore tree is located in Greenbrier County, West Virginia. The tree is over 300 years old and stands 177 feet tall with a circumference of 28 feet.
West Virginia random facts
Hampshire County, located in the eastern panhandle of West Virginia, has a rich history that dates back to the 18th-century colonial era. The county was established in 1754, making it one of the oldest counties in the state. It was named after the English county of Hampshire and was originally part of the vast Virginia Colony.

In its early years, Hampshire County played a significant role in the American Revolution and the subsequent westward expansion. The area was strategically important due to its position along major transportation routes and its proximity to the Appalachian Mountains. Hampshire County saw several skirmishes and battles during the Revolution and the later conflicts, including the Civil War.

During the Civil War, Hampshire County saw divided loyalties, with residents supporting both the Union and the Confederacy. The region experienced raids and skirmishes from both sides, causing widespread destruction and hardship for its inhabitants. However, Hampshire County remained firmly in Union control throughout the war and was a haven for Confederate deserters seeking refuge.

In the years following the war, Hampshire County experienced a period of recovery and growth. Agriculture, particularly farming and livestock production, became the backbone of the county's economy. The county also gained attention as a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hunting, fishing, and hiking, thanks to its scenic beauty and abundance of natural resources.

Today, Hampshire County continues to preserve its rich history while embracing modern development. The county is home to many historical sites and landmarks, including the Hampshire County Courthouse, the oldest continuously operating courthouse in West Virginia. Hampshire County's natural landscape and recreational opportunities make it an attractive destination for both residents and visitors alike.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Hampshire County, West Virginia.

  • 1754 - Hampshire County is established by the Colony of Virginia.
  • 1756 - The French and Indian War breaks out, affecting Hampshire County.
  • 1777 - Hampshire County becomes part of the newly formed state of West Virginia.
  • 1861 - The Civil War begins, and Hampshire County becomes a borderland between Union and Confederate forces.
  • 1862 - The Battle of Romney takes place in Hampshire County.
  • 1863 - Hampshire County is raided multiple times by Confederate forces.
  • 1866 - The West Virginia Colored Institute is established in Hampshire County, later becoming West Virginia State University.
  • 1871 - The Potomac River is bridged at North River Mills, connecting Hampshire County to Maryland.
  • 1933 - The Civilian Conservation Corps establishes Camp MP-1 in Hampshire County, providing much-needed jobs during the Great Depression.
  • 2012 - Hampshire County celebrates its 250th anniversary.