Decoration Day, which later evolved into Memorial Day, has a rich history of commemorating the sacrifices made by fallen soldiers. Here's a look at how this day was celebrated in 1935, focusing on five key facts:
1. The Official Date
In 1935, Decoration Day was observed on May 30th. This date, chosen because flowers would be in bloom all over the country, had been the standard since the holiday’s inception post-Civil War. It was a time when people would gather to honor the memory of those who had died in military service.
🌹 Note: Memorial Day was officially changed to the last Monday in May in 1971 to create a three-day weekend for federal employees.
2. Ceremonies and Parades
- Parades: Towns and cities across the United States organized parades with bands, veterans’ groups, and military units participating. These parades served both to remember the fallen and to foster patriotism.
- Ceremonies: Local cemeteries held ceremonies where community leaders, veterans, and politicians delivered speeches. Prayers, the reading of poems, and the laying of wreaths on graves were common.
3. How People Honored the Day
Many people visited cemeteries to place flowers and flags on the graves of military personnel. In addition:
- Flags were flown at half-staff until noon, then raised to the top of the staff to signify the nation’s resolve to continue the fight for freedom.
- Family members and friends gathered for picnics or small community gatherings, often sharing memories of loved ones lost in wars.
🎗 Note: By decorating the graves, the public was not only honoring the memory but also ensuring that these fallen soldiers would not be forgotten.
4. Public Events and Memorials
Here’s a snapshot of how some major cities celebrated:
| City | Event |
|---|---|
| Washington D.C. | Decoration of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery |
| New York City | Grand parade down Fifth Avenue |
| Los Angeles | Memorial services at Los Angeles National Cemetery |
5. The Political and Social Context
In 1935, the country was still in the throes of the Great Depression, and while WWII was looming, its impact was not yet felt in the same way. Here’s how this context shaped the celebration:
- Political Speeches: Leaders often used the occasion to discuss the economic hardships and the need for national unity. Decoration Day became a platform for politicians to express solidarity with the common citizen.
- Social Relevance: The day emphasized the sacrifices made for the nation and reflected on the collective effort needed to overcome current challenges.
The celebrations of Decoration Day in 1935 underscored the enduring spirit of remembrance, honoring those who had given their lives for freedom. With its unique blend of solemnity and community gatherings, this holiday served as a poignant reminder of both loss and resilience, reinforcing the bond between the American people and their fallen heroes.
Why was May 30th chosen for Decoration Day?
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May 30th was chosen because it was a time when flowers would be in bloom across the United States, facilitating the decoration of graves.
How did Decoration Day become Memorial Day?
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Decoration Day was renamed Memorial Day to commemorate all Americans who died in military service. The name change was informal until 1967 when Congress recognized it. The change was made official in 1971 when the Uniform Monday Holiday Act was enacted.
What activities were typical of Decoration Day celebrations in the 1930s?
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Typical activities included parades, speeches, decorating graves with flowers and flags, picnics, and memorial services. These were both a means to honor the fallen and to foster community spirit.
Did Decoration Day in 1935 have any political implications?
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Yes, with the backdrop of the Great Depression, political leaders used the occasion to discuss national unity and the importance of overcoming current hardships.
