What’s the History of Memorial Day?

Memorial Day in the United States has a rich history that dates back to the aftermath of the Civil War. Here are the key points in its evolution:

Origins

Decoration Day: Memorial Day was originally known as Decoration Day. The tradition of decorating soldiers' graves with flowers and flags dates back to the 1860s.

Earliest Observances: Numerous towns and cities claim to be the birthplace of Memorial Day. One of the earliest recorded observances was in Charleston, South Carolina, in 1865, where formerly enslaved people honored fallen Union soldiers.

Establishment

Official Proclamation: General John A. Logan, leader of an organization for Northern Civil War veterans, called for a nationwide day of remembrance on May 30, 1868. This date was chosen because it was not the anniversary of any particular battle.

First National Observance: On May 30, 1868, General James Garfield made a speech at Arlington National Cemetery, and 5,000 participants decorated the graves of the 20,000 Union and Confederate soldiers buried there.

Evolution

Expansion: By the late 19th century, many communities across the country began to observe Memorial Day. The holiday gradually extended to honor all American military personnel who died in all wars.

Uniform Date: In 1968, the Uniform Monday Holiday Act moved Memorial Day from May 30 to the last Monday in May, creating a three-day weekend for federal employees. This change went into effect in 1971.

Modern Observance

National Moment of Remembrance: In 2000, Congress established the National Moment of Remembrance, encouraging Americans to pause at 3:00 p.m. local time on Memorial Day to remember and honor the fallen.

Traditions: Memorial Day is observed with ceremonies at cemeteries, parades, and speeches. It is also a time when many Americans visit cemeteries and memorials to honor those who died in military service. The holiday marks the unofficial start of summer.

Significance

Memorial Day serves as a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by military personnel for the freedoms enjoyed in the United States. It is distinct from Veterans Day, which honors all who have served in the U.S. military. Memorial Day specifically commemorates those who died in service to the nation.

Cannon Township

Last week Thursday, Jim Alles led a group of boy scouts and they put up flags in one of our Cannon Township Cemeteries. If anyone took any photos at this event please send my way.

How does your family celebrate Memorial Day? Send me a message at jes@swiftprinting.com