Historical Marker

From Civil War to Civil Rights / Battle of Harpers Ferry

Historical marker location:
123 Murphy Road, Bolivar, West Virginia
( Marker is on Murphy Road (Local Road 340/5) 0.3 miles south of Campground Road (Local Road 340/17), on the left when traveling south.)

Harpers Ferry National Historical Park. National Park Service, U.S. Department of the Interior

  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.

Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, is the site of John Brown's raid in 1859, which is considered a major event leading up to the Civil War. Brown and his supporters attempted to seize the federal arsenal at Harpers Ferry in an effort to arm slaves and start a rebellion against slaveholders.
West Virginia random facts
Jefferson County, West Virginia, is a region steeped in rich history. Its origins can be traced back to the early 18th century when European settlers first arrived in the area. In 1801, Jefferson County was established following the division of Berkeley County, and it was named in honor of President Thomas Jefferson. One of the county's most significant events occurred during the American Civil War, with the Battle of Harper's Ferry taking place within its borders in 1862.

During the 19th century, Jefferson County experienced rapid growth due to its strategic location along the Potomac River and the development of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal and the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad. These transportation routes facilitated trade and commerce, leading to the establishment of various industries, including flour mills, tanneries, and iron foundries. As a result, Jefferson County became known as an important center of manufacturing and trade in the region.

The abolitionist movement also had a strong presence in Jefferson County, largely due to its proximity to Harper's Ferry, where John Brown conducted his famous raid in 1859. Many local residents actively supported the Underground Railroad, assisting enslaved individuals in their quest for freedom. The county's role in the fight against slavery adds to the historical significance of Jefferson County.

In recent years, Jefferson County has experienced a steady population growth, becoming a hub for commuters working in neighboring cities. Its charming small towns, picturesque landscapes, and preserved historic sites continue to attract visitors and make Jefferson County a fascinating destination for those interested in its diverse and significant history.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Jefferson County, West Virginia.

  • 1801 - Jefferson County is established in the new state of West Virginia.
  • 1803 - Charles Town becomes the county seat.
  • 1806 - Shepherdstown is incorporated as the first town in the county.
  • 1844 - The Baltimore and Ohio Railroad reaches Jefferson County, facilitating growth and trade.
  • 1861-1865 - Jefferson County experiences the impact of the American Civil War.
  • 1863 - The Battle of Shepherdstown takes place during the Civil War.
  • 1871 - Harpers Ferry National Historical Park is established, preserving the area's significant history.
  • 1909 - The Virginia Air Line Railway opens, providing additional transportation options.
  • 1944 - The U.S. Navy establishes the Naval Ordnance Works, bringing more employment opportunities.
  • 1971 - Historic Shepherdstown is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
  • 2010 - Jefferson County experiences population growth and increased economic development.