History of Memorial Day

At St. Charles Monuments of Long Island, New York, we have created many headstones honoring soldiers who have lost their lives during war. We’ve also created civic memorials to honor those who have served in the military. In honor of this holiday we’d like to provide a brief history on how it all started.

When Memorial day comes to mind, many people remember loved ones who have served our country, the school year ending, summer BBQ’s and the beginning of a new season. Memorial day was not always as widely celebrated as it is today. Memorial day was created after the American Civil War, in order to honor the soldiers of the Union and Confederate who passed away. Until the twentieth century Memorial day was called Decoration day and only honored those who served during the Civil War.

There are many towns, who claim the declaration of being the first town, to recognize Memorial day. Waterloo, New York was named the official birth place of the first ever town to celebrate the holiday. Waterloo was declared the birth place by President Johnson in May of 1966. A few years later in 1971, Congress decided to pass the day as a national holiday. Setting Memorial day as a holiday allows people to take off and honor our brave American troops. There are some states in the south, who celebrate the troops who served in Confederate War on a separate day. Some call it the “Confederate Memorial Day,” which is celebrated on different days throughout the country. The most common states who celebrate this day include Alabama, Mississippi, Florida and Georgia.

Memorial day is now celebrated every year to honor all Americans who have died while serving in the military. The official Memorial day services, are held at the Arlington National Cemetery. Typical practices include either the president or vice president, placing the traditional wreath over a deceased soldiers grave. This service usually includes a speech from the president followed by the playing of taps. Most people will visit cemeteries of loved ones, to leave flowers on headstones and pay respects. Also you always see a few more American flags hanging outside of homes and businesses around this time of year.