Historical Marker

Civil War Soldiers Monument

Historical marker location:
100 South Main Street, Franklin, West Virginia
( Memorial is at the intersection of South Main Street (U.S. 220) and Chestnut Street, on the right when traveling south on South Main Street.)
Marker installed: 2011

  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 Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), a program established during the Great Depression to provide employment and training to young men, built many of West Virginia's state parks and recreational areas.
West Virginia random facts
Pendleton County, located in the eastern part of West Virginia, has a rich history that dates back to pre-colonial times. The region was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Shawnee and Cherokee. In the early 18th century, European settlers began to arrive, primarily of German and Scotch-Irish descent. The area's first permanent settlement was established in 1749, known as Fort Seybert.

During the American Revolution, the county experienced hardships due to the conflict between Native Americans and settlers. The region saw several attacks and massacres, including the notable events at Fort Seybert and Fort Upper Tract. Following the Revolution, Pendleton County became part of the newly formed Commonwealth of Virginia.

In the mid-19th century, Pendleton County played a significant role in the Civil War as it bordered the state of Virginia, which had seceded from the Union. Though the county itself voted to remain in the Union, many of its residents joined the Confederate army. The region witnessed several skirmishes and military actions as Union and Confederate forces clashed.

After the end of the Civil War, Pendleton County's economy shifted primarily to agriculture and timber industries. The county saw further development in the early 20th century with the introduction of railroads, which allowed for better transportation of goods. Today, Pendleton County is known for its natural beauty, including the picturesque town of Franklin and the scenic South Branch Potomac River. The county celebrates its history through various festivals and events, showcasing its heritage and culture to residents and tourists alike.

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

  • 1750: Pendleton County was part of Augusta County, Virginia.
  • 1754: Fort Seybert Massacre occurred during the French and Indian War.
  • 1787: Pendleton County was established by the Virginia General Assembly.
  • 1790: Franklin became the county seat.
  • 1863: During the Civil War, the Battle of Franklin was fought in the county.
  • 1893: Pendleton County Courthouse was constructed in Franklin.
  • 1960s: Seneca Rocks gained popularity as a rock climbing destination.
  • 2021: Pendleton County has a population of around 7,000 people.
  • Present: Pendleton County is known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreational activities.