Let us return to Columbus, Mississippi, in the spring of 1866. The Civil War has been over for a year.
Just outside Columbus is a cemetery where both Confederate and Union soldiers killed at the Battle of Shiloh are buried. On April 25, 1866, four young women pay a visit to the cemetery to tend the graves of lost loved ones and decorate them with memorial garlands of flowers.
After decorating the Condederate graves, the women walk over to a small plot where forty Union soldiers are buried. Gently they scatter Southern magnolia blossoms on the Northern graves.
The news of this unselfish, compassionate gesture spread quickly and touches everyone.
Soon in many small towns all over the country, people were gathering at Civil War cemeteries and holding commemorative or "memorial day" services.
Today, Memorial Day is recognized as a day honoring all of those who have fought America's wars.
-Mrs. Sharp's Traditions by Sarah Ban Breathnack
Here is our Memorial Day menu:
~Grilled hamburgers and hotdogs
~Corn on the cob with butter and chives
~Baked Beans
~Deviled Eggs
~Potato Salad http://the-sparrows-nest.blogspot.com/2006/04/grandmas-potato-salad.html
~Watermelon
~Lemonade Pie
~Ice Cream Sandwiches
What are your plans for this weekend?
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