Approximately 25 cities and towns across the country have claimed to be the first to celebrate Memorial Day; however, in 1966, Congress and President Johnson declared Waterloo, NY as the official birthplace of the holiday. There, on May 5, 1866, the town honored veterans who had served in the Civil War by closing businesses and flying flags at half-staff. The holiday quickly spread, and by the beginning of the 20th century, Memorial Day ceremonies were being held all over the country.
After Wold War I, Memorial Day expanded to honor those who have died in all American Wars. In 1971, Memorial Day was declared a national holiday, and in 2000, Congress declared that there should be a National Moment of Remembrance at 3 p.m. where we hold a minute of silence to remember and honor those who have died in service to our nation.
To learn more about the history of Memorial Day, click here.
For more resources on Memorial Day, click here.
Posted by: Audrey Simmons
After Wold War I, Memorial Day expanded to honor those who have died in all American Wars. In 1971, Memorial Day was declared a national holiday, and in 2000, Congress declared that there should be a National Moment of Remembrance at 3 p.m. where we hold a minute of silence to remember and honor those who have died in service to our nation.
To learn more about the history of Memorial Day, click here.
For more resources on Memorial Day, click here.
Posted by: Audrey Simmons