CONFEDERATE MEMORIAL DAY

Confederate Memorial Day, also known as Confederate Heroes Day or Confederate Decoration Day, is mostly observed by the southwestern states. The cultural holiday commemorates the Confederate soldiers who died in their line of military service during the American Civil War.

What is the history of Confederate Memorial Day

The great American civil war occurred between 1861 and 1865. It is believed that the war was triggered by uncompromising differences about slavery by various southern states. For four years, the war caused deaths, economic loss, and political instability in the country. In April 1865, the dawn came when Confederate General Joseph E. Johnston surrendered to General William T. Sherman. They signed an agreement that saw over 89000 soldiers surrender the civil war. This marked the end of the American civil war, one that had already claimed the lives of over 290000 confederate troops. In 1866, the Ladies Memorial Association of Columbus in Georgia set aside a day to commemorate all those that died in the confederate war. In 1874, Confederate Memorial Day was proclaimed by the state legislature as a public holiday.

When is Confederate Memorial Day?

Various states celebrate Confederate Memorial Day but on different days. Alabama and Mississippi mark the day in late April to coincide with the day when Confederate General Joseph Johnston surrendered to General William Sherman in North Carolina. South Carolina observes the day on May 10th to coincide with the death of General Stonewall Jackson in 1863. Texas, on the other hand, celebrate the holiday on January 19th. Texans call it Confederate Heroes Day, and their chosen date is a celebration of the birthdays of Jefferson Davis and Robert E. Lee.

Is Confederate Memorial Day a state holiday?

In the states of Texas, Mississippi, Alabama, and South Carolina, Confederate Memorial Day is a state holiday. Therefore, it is a day off to the general population in these states.

What is closed or open on Confederate Memorial Day?

In all the states where Confederate Memorial Day is a public holiday, government and state offices, schools, organizations, and most businesses are closed. Some stores may be opened on reduced hours or according to the local custom. Public transit services may operate per the holiday schedules, but there is likely to be traffic due to road closures around war memorials and other important battlegrounds.

Things to do on Confederate Memorial Day

Confederate Memorial Day is a time to show loyalty to your country by honoring the fallen soldiers. In the university of Georgia, the original constitution of the confederate states of America is publicly displayed at the main library.

You could also attend a church service on this day. The service is dedicated to all the soldiers who lost their lives in the civil war and praying for the United States leaders.

In all the states that observe Confederate Memorial Day, parades incorporating military personnel are held. There may also be speeches by politicians and other veteran organizations. In some places, the display of civil war relics and re-enactments of battles and events during the civil war are also conducted.

You may also spend the day visiting memorial cemeteries. Remember to wear a red poppy as this signifies your remembrance for the fallen soldiers during the American Civil war. If you are feeling more energetic, throw a friend's party or barbeque at home.