History of Memorial Day
Memorial Day is day set aside to honor those who served in war. The actual history of Memorial Day are unclear, many towns claim to be the originator. Memorial Day's roots began in the Civil War, in 1866 Henry Welles-a drug store owner in Waterloo, New York-came up with the idea to close businesses and place flowers on soldier's graves. On May 5,1868 the citizens decorated the soldier's graves with crosses, wreaths, and flowers.
During that time, a retired Major General, Jonathan Logan, created a ceremony to honor soldiers who survived the war. the survivors decorated their fallen comrade's graves with flags. The first ceremony took place at Arlington National Cemetery in Washington D.C. where 20,000 Union soldiers were buried. People today observe Memorial Day with various traditions like parades. However, throughout the history of Memorial Day, the true meaning has been lost since Congress made it an official three-day weekend.
Fast Facts
- Memorial Day started as Decoration Day
- In 1882, Decoration Day became Memorial Day
- Last Monday in May since 1971
- New York: first considered Memorial Day a holiday
- Originally celebrated on May 30
- President Lyndon Johnson declared Waterloo the birthplace of Memorial Day
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