Pride and glory, and honor, all Live in the colors to stand or fall.”
Did you know that Memorial Day was originally called Decoration Day and it was a day to honor soldiers, both Union and Confederate, who died during the Civil War? Families began bringing flowers to place on graves of the fallen, hence “decoration” day.
The first national Decoration Day ceremony was held by the Grand Army of the Republic at Arlington National Cemetery on 30 May 1868.
This postcard, illustrated by Ellen Clapsaddle, dates from 1910 and celebrates the Grand Army of the Republic, aka the G.A.R., the largest of all the Union veterans’ organizations.
The G.A.R. was founded in Decatur, Illinois in 1866 and dissolved in 1956 when its last surviving member, Albert Woolson, died. It is believed that G.A.R. records were donated to the Smithsonian, so if you have a Union Civil War ancestor who might have been a member, check with the museum.
While the holiday was more often called Memorial Day by the mid 20th century, it wasn’t until 1967 that it was officially renamed.
One comment in closing – today isn’t the day to honor living military personnel or veterans for their service.
It’s our day to remember all those who died defending America.
Many of my husband’s ancestors who fought for the Union were members of and leaders of GAR chapters. I’m glad there are still monuments and even a Grand Army of the Republic Highway (Route 6, coast to coast) to keep these historic memories alive.
Thank you for reminding us that this day is for remembering those who died while serving for our country.