Waterloo NY Birthplace of Memorial Day

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Waterloo NY
William H. Burton House, National Memorial Day Museum in Waterloo NY, Photo courtesy Wikimedia Commons

We all know Memorial Day is day of honoring fallen soldiers, although some might be surprised to learn of the local origins of this celebrated federal holiday.

Originally called Decoration Day, the earliest celebrations of today’s Memorial Day began during the aftermath of the Civil War to honor both the Union and Confederate soldiers who died in the Civil War. Today we observe Memorial Day by remembering and honoring all men and women who have died in military service for the United States, across all wars.

Many cities and towns claim to be the birthplace of the holiday, but in 1966, President Lyndon Johnson designated,Waterloo, New York as the Birthplace of Memorial Day.

Traditionally on Memorial Day, the flag of the United States is raised briskly to the top of the staff and then lowered to the half-staff position, where it remains only until noon. It is then raised to full-staff for the remainder of the day.

2019  Memorial Day Events – Waterloo, NY

If you are looking to soak up some local history the town of Waterloo has a bunch of activities and events scheduled on Memorial Day Weekend that will appeal to the whole family. Parades, living history reenactments, classic car show,  strolling entertainers,  food concessions, 5k Race, Bike Rally, train tours, history tours, pizza eating contest, ice cream eating contest, patriotic merchandise,  are all some of the highlights happening May 24-27th & 30th in Waterloo.

To see the full schedule of events and event location map check out the Official Waterloo Memorial Day Site

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