Before Johnstown PA celebrated Memorial Day, Waterloo NY had begun the tradition on May 5, 1866

Today I resume posting about David McCullough’s book, The Johnstown Flood. I had to take a few days off because of other demands upon my time.

First, there is this: On Thursday, May 30, 1889, the day before the devastating flood in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, the people of the town celebrated Memorial Day with festivities, a parade, and cemetery visits. 

Hmm. I read that tidbit in McCullough’s book, but then stopped to wonder about the day and date. After all, Memorial Day is always a Monday. Right? Well, not exactly. I’ve included some of the history below:

(Source: History.com)

Memorial Day is an American holiday, observed on the last Monday of May, honoring the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military. Memorial Day 2024 occurred on Monday, May 27. 

Originally known as Decoration Day, it originated in the years following the Civil War and became an official federal holiday in 1971. Many Americans observe Memorial Day by visiting cemeteries or memorials, holding family gatherings and participating in parades. Unofficially, it marks the beginning of the summer season.

Read more via this link.