Origin of Memorial Day

The Ladies’ Memorial Association of Columbus, Georgia originated the widespread annual observance of honoring soldiers’ sacrifice by decorating their graves with flowers, which became known as Memorial Day. The association’s secretary, Mrs. Charles J. (Mary Ann) Williams, wrote a letter on March 10, 1866 that was printed in newspapers throughout Georgia and across the South urging adoption of the holiday. Along with the letter, plans and preparations for the tribute were reported throughout the country. The proposal was adopted and generally observed on April 26, 1866 throughout much of the South. Though first conceived to honor Southern soldiers, in practice the graves of those from the North were decorated from the beginning as well. Former Union General John A. Logan took notice and mentioned these observances in a speech to veterans later that year. After the third annual observance of Memorial Day, Logan, as commander-in-chief of the Grand Army of the Republic, ordered all posts throughout the country to observe a similar commemoration in the North on May 30, 1868. Although many claim to have originated the holiday, Columbus, Georgia is the only one supported by history.

Columbus, Georgia · United States