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Field Memorials
Mrs Mary Logan and the Origins of National Memorial Day
Account of Mrs. Mary Logan's 1868 visit to Petersburg, Virginia, her inspiration from decorated Confederate graves, and her role in creating National Memorial Day.
Petersburg Virginia as the Inspiration for National Memorial Day
As of this writing Memorial Day is observed on the last weekend in May and its origin is traced to Petersburg Virginia where early memorial observances inspired a national day.
Veterans’ Letters & Stories
How Memorial Day Began After the Civil War: The True Origins of America’s Day of Remembrance
Learn how Memorial Day began after the Civil War, from early Decoration Day traditions to the first organized commemorations honoring Union and Confederate dead. Explore key events, places, and people tied to Memorial Day’s origins, how it spread nationwide, and how it became a federal holiday dedicated to remembering fallen U.S. service members.
History of America 1860 Review: A Clear Summary of the Year That Set the Stage for the Civil War
A detailed History of America 1860 review covering major political events, sectional tensions, the presidential election of 1860, daily life, and economic and social changes that pushed the United States toward the Civil War. Includes key figures, timelines, and context to understand why 1860 became a turning point in American history.
Who Started the Tradition of Decorating Graves: Ancient Roots, Cultural Traditions, and How Grave Decoration Evolved
Explore who started the tradition of decorating graves and how grave decoration began across ancient civilizations and faiths. Learn the origins of placing flowers, stones, wreaths, candles, and offerings on graves-from early burial customs to modern Memorial Day practices-and discover what these traditions mean today.
General Order Number 11 and the Establishment of Memorial Day
General Order Number 11 of the Grand Army of the Republic, issued by John A. Logan in May 1868, established Decoration Day as a nationwide observance.
Ladies Memorial Association and the Origins of National Memorial Day
How the Ladies Memorial Association of Petersburg and Miss Nora Davidson's grave decorating traditions helped inspire the National Memorial Day.
Archival Exhibits
Why Memorial Day Was Created: The Civil War Origins of Decoration Day and How It Became a National Holiday
Learn why Memorial Day was created, tracing its origins to the Civil War-era tradition of Decoration Day, when Americans honored fallen soldiers by decorating their graves. Explore how local remembrance ceremonies evolved into a federal holiday, what Memorial Day means today, and why it remains an important day of national mourning and tribute to U.S. military service members who died in service.
How Civil War Mourning Shaped Memorial Day: From Decoration Day to a National Tradition of Remembrance
Explore how Civil War mourning practices helped shape Memorial Day, tracing the rise of Decoration Day, community grave-decorating rituals, and the evolving meaning of national remembrance for fallen soldiers. Learn how postwar grief, veterans’ groups, and local commemorations influenced the holiday’s traditions and legacy.
Battle of June 9 1864 at Petersburg and its role in Memorial Days origin
Account of the June 9, 1864 Battle of Petersburg, where local militia of old men and boys delayed Union forces long enough to save the city and shape later Memorial Day traditions.
Grand Army of the Republic and General Logans Role in Memorial Day
Overview of the Grand Army of the Republic, General John A. Logan's leadership, and his role in establishing and defining the observance of National Memorial Day.