History of Memorial Day
At St. Charles Monuments, we proudly create headstones on Long Island to honor the brave men and women who served in the U.S. Armed Forces. From personalized military headstones to civic monuments, we help families preserve the memory of their loved ones with dignity and respect.
As Memorial Day approaches, we want to reflect on the history and meaning behind this important national holiday.
The Origins of Memorial Day
Memorial Day, once known as Decoration Day, was born out of the grief and respect following the Civil War. Established in 1868 by General John A. Logan, the day was designated for decorating the graves of fallen Union and Confederate soldiers. Citizens were encouraged to place flowers, flags, and wreaths on the headstones of those who gave their lives in service.
Over time, the country expanded the day’s meaning to recognize all U.S. military personnel who died while serving. In 1971, Congress declared Memorial Day a national holiday and moved the observance to the last Monday in May.
Who Celebrated It First?
Many cities claim to be the original birthplace of Memorial Day. However, Waterloo, New York holds the official title. President Lyndon B. Johnson declared Waterloo the origin in 1966, noting its consistent community-wide observances dating back to 1866.
While debates about the origin continue, Americans across the nation unite around Memorial Day’s central message: to remember and honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
Modern Traditions and National Observances
Today, Americans observe Memorial Day through parades, ceremonies, and cemetery visits. At Arlington National Cemetery, the President or Vice President leads a formal service, placing a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The ceremony includes a presidential address and the playing of “Taps.”
Across Long Island, families gather to pay tribute to veterans by placing flowers and flags at gravesites. You’ll also see American flags displayed proudly on homes and businesses throughout the weekend.
Our Role in Honoring Veterans
At St. Charles Monuments, we are proud to serve as part of your family’s remembrance. Our team creates military headstones and custom memorials on Long Island that reflect the dignity, courage, and sacrifice of the individual being honored.
Whether you’re looking to create a veteran memorial, a personalized cemetery monument, or a traditional military grave marker, we are here to help guide you every step of the way with compassion and care.
Reflect, Remember, and Honor
As you gather with loved ones this Memorial Day, we encourage you to take a quiet moment to reflect on the freedoms we enjoy—and the cost at which they came. Visit a cemetery, tell the stories of those who served, and remember the lives behind each name etched in stone.
From all of us at St. Charles Monuments, we thank every veteran and their families for their service and sacrifice.
