Highlights Archives
Decoration Day Traces Origins of Memorial Day
The national holiday Americans celebrate as Memorial Day on the last Monday of May originally was called Decoration Day — a holiday first celebrated on May 30, 1868, to honor Civil War dead by decorating their graves. But it wasn't until 1882 that the name changed to Memorial Day and soldiers who had died in other conflicts were also honored. On Sunday, May 27, Old World Wisconsin will roll back the clock to a Decoration Day celebration that spans a spectrum of holiday activities that date to before and after the change in names.
Visitors can expect to take part in a variety of Decoration Day and Memorial Day observances:
- Make flowers and decorations for soldiers' graves.
- Watch a stirring parade and participate in a grave-decorating ceremony.
- Mingle with the women of the Women's Relief Corps and the men of the Grand Army of the Republic.
- Listen to the inspirational music of the 55-piece 1st Brigade Band.
- Visit a World War I-era field aid station and talk with reenactors portraying soldiers of the 1st Wisconsin Sanitary Train — an ambulance company.
While celebrating the grand old holiday that today marks the unofficial start of the summer season in the United States, you'll want to explore the many different farms and outdoor exhibits the museum has to offer. For complete details, see our visitor information page. And veterans, remember that you receive free admission during Decoration Day with proof of service!
:: Posted May 21, 2007
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