Historical Marker

Wabash College Students who Served in the Civil War

Historical marker location:
301 W. Wabash Avenue, Crawfordsville, Indiana
( Memorial is on South Grant Avenue south of West Wabash Avenue, on the right when traveling south.)

  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.

Indiana has the friendliest people I've ever met.
Jared Padalecki in Interview with Indianapolis Monthly
Montgomery County, Indiana has a rich and vibrant history that spans over two centuries. The area was once inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Miami and Delaware tribes. The first European settlers arrived in the late 1820s, attracted by the fertile land and abundant natural resources. The county was officially established in 1822, named after General Richard Montgomery who fought in the American Revolutionary War.

During the 19th century, Montgomery County rapidly developed as an agricultural center. The county became known for its production of corn, wheat, and livestock, which fueled its economy. The construction of railroads in the late 1800s further facilitated the transportation and export of these agricultural products, leading to economic growth and increased prosperity for the county.

Montgomery County also played a significant role in the Underground Railroad, a network of secret routes and safe houses used by enslaved African Americans to escape to freedom. Local residents actively participated in assisting escaped slaves, providing shelter and assistance along their dangerous journey northward.

In the 20th century, Montgomery County experienced industrialization and the growth of manufacturing sectors. The county became known for its production of automobiles, farm machinery, and textiles. However, like many other Rust Belt areas, the decline of manufacturing in the latter half of the century brought economic challenges to the county.

Today, Montgomery County thrives as a vibrant community that celebrates its rich heritage while embracing new opportunities. It showcases its history through various museums and attractions, preserving its agricultural and industrial roots. The county continues to be a hub for agriculture, manufacturing, and services, contributing to the overall economic growth of the region.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Montgomery County, Indiana.

  • 1817 - Montgomery County is established in the Indiana Territory.
  • 1822 - Crawfordsville is founded as the county seat.
  • 1831 - Waveland is platted and becomes an important trading post.
  • 1853 - The Indianapolis and Terre Haute Railroad is completed, boosting the county's economy.
  • 1861-1865 - Montgomery County sends troops to fight in the Civil War.
  • 1871 - The first streetlights are installed in Crawfordsville.
  • 1881 - Wabash College is founded in Crawfordsville.
  • 1920 - The Nineteenth Amendment is ratified, granting women the right to vote.
  • 1950s-1960s - Montgomery County experiences economic growth with the arrival of new industries.
  • 1972 - Shades State Park is established in Waveland.
  • 2008 - The Montgomery County Courthouse undergoes significant renovations.
  • 2019 - Montgomery County celebrates its bicentennial.