Decoration Day, now known as Memorial Day, has deep roots in American history, originally established to honor those who died in the Civil War. The name "Decoration Day" refers to the practice of adorning graves with flowers, wreaths, and flags to commemorate the fallen soldiers. Here are five key reasons why this day was originally called Decoration Day:
1. The Act of Decorating Graves
The tradition of decorating graves with flowers and other memorabilia began as an informal tribute to honor Civil War soldiers. Women’s groups in the South started this practice almost immediately after the war, placing flowers on the graves of both Confederate and Union soldiers. Over time, these acts of remembrance became more organized, leading to a formal day of decoration.
- Memorial flowers symbolized life, renewal, and the beauty of the lives lost.
- Flags were often used to signify patriotism and the sacrifice of the soldiers.
🌸 Note: This tradition continues today, but the variety of decorations has expanded to include personalized items like photographs and memorabilia.
2. The First Observance in Waterloo, New York
In 1866, the town of Waterloo, New York, held its first large-scale memorial event, which became known as Decoration Day. Residents honored local veterans by decorating their graves. The date, May 5, was chosen for its significance as the first spring flowers bloom. This event was later recognized as an inspiration for the national observance of Memorial Day.
Key aspects of Waterloo’s event:
- A civic event with widespread community participation.
- Emphasis on unifying the community and honoring soldiers from both sides of the conflict.
3. General Order No. 11 by the Grand Army of the Republic (GAR)
The Grand Army of the Republic, an organization for Union veterans, officially recognized Decoration Day in 1868 through General Order No. 11, issued by Commander-in-Chief John A. Logan. He declared May 30 as the day to decorate the graves of those who died in the Civil War. This order was crucial in:
- Setting a specific date for the entire country to observe.
- Establishing a formal way to remember and honor the fallen.
4. Regional Variations and Expansion
Decoration Day was initially observed primarily in the North. However, over time, the Southern states also adopted the practice of decorating graves:
- Confederate Memorial Day emerged in states like Georgia, South Carolina, and Virginia.
- By the end of the 19th century, Decoration Day was becoming a national tradition, bridging the North-South divide through shared memory and respect for the fallen.
5. Transition to Memorial Day
The name officially changed to Memorial Day through a federal act of Congress in 1967, but the essence of “Decoration Day” persists. This transition:
- Reflected a broader acknowledgment of all who died in military service, not just Civil War soldiers.
- Symbolized a shift from regional to national remembrance, encompassing all wars and conflicts.
The remembrance now includes:
- Visiting gravesites.
- Parades, speeches, and ceremonies at national cemeteries.
- Traditional activities like picnics and barbecues, which foster community spirit.
Today, we remember that Decoration Day was not just a day of mourning but a time of unity, where Americans came together to honor those who had given their lives for their country, reflecting the ongoing dedication to freedom, democracy, and the healing of national wounds.
Why was Memorial Day moved to the last Monday in May?
+
Memorial Day was moved to the last Monday in May in 1971 to create a three-day weekend for federal employees, thanks to the Uniform Monday Holiday Act. This act aimed to provide more time for rest and travel, stimulate economic activity, and create longer weekends for holidays throughout the year.
What’s the difference between Memorial Day and Veterans Day?
+
Memorial Day honors those who died while serving in the military, whereas Veterans Day honors all who have served, living or deceased, in the U.S. military. Veterans Day is on November 11, commemorating the end of World War I.
How can I properly observe Memorial Day?
+
Proper observance of Memorial Day can include:
- Attending community memorial services or parades.
- Visiting cemeteries or memorials.
- Flying the U.S. flag at half-staff from dawn until noon.
- Participating in a moment of silence or wreath-laying ceremonies.
- Remembering and educating others about the sacrifices of those who died in military service.
