1865
Entry 01
Origins After the Civil War
In the immediate aftermath of the Civil War, communities across the country began gathering in spring to decorate the graves of fallen soldiers with flowers, prayers, and song.
A Solemn Inheritance
The history of Memorial Day.
What began as small acts of remembrance in cemeteries across a grieving nation became one of America's most solemn observances. This is how it came to be.
1868
Entry 02
The First Decoration Day
General John A. Logan, commander of the Grand Army of the Republic, proclaimed May 30 as a day to honor the war dead. The first major observance was held at Arlington National Cemetery.
1873
Entry 03
First State Recognition
New York became the first state to officially recognize Decoration Day as a holiday. Other northern states followed within the decade.
1971
Entry 04
A Federal Holiday
The Uniform Monday Holiday Act formally established Memorial Day as a federal holiday observed on the last Monday in May, expanding the scope to honor all American military personnel who died in service.
2000
Entry 05
The National Moment of Remembrance
Congress passed the National Moment of Remembrance Act, asking all Americans to pause for one minute at 3:00 PM local time on Memorial Day to honor the fallen.
"From these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion."