National Cemetery Celebrated Wreath Day

Close-up image of hands gently placing a wreath on a tombstone in a peaceful, green cemetery surrounded by tall trees and American flags..
National cemetery celebrated wreath day illustration

Welcome to WhatNationalDayIsIt.com, where we uncover the fascinating history behind every national day! Today, let's dive into the celebration of National Cemetery Celebrated Wreath Day.

When is Cemetery Celebrated Wreath Day?

It's national cemetery celebrated wreath day on the 20th December.


A Day of Reflection and Remembrance

Every year on National Cemetery Celebrated Wreath Day, we come together to honor the memory of our fallen heroes. This solemn occasion brings us to cemeteries across the nation, where we pay tribute to those who have served their country with bravery and selflessness.

Understanding the Origins

The idea behind National Cemetery Celebrated Wreath Day dates back to a heartfelt gesture by a young Civil Air Patrol member named Morrill Worcester. In 1992, Worcester found himself in Arlington National Cemetery during the holiday season. Struck by the sight of the veterans' graves without wreaths, he felt compelled to honor their memory by placing wreaths on each headstone. This simple act of kindness sparked a nationwide movement that eventually led to the establishment of National Cemetery Celebrated Wreath Day.

The Journey to Official Recognition

It took several years for National Cemetery Celebrated Wreath Day to gain official recognition. Various organizations, including the Civil Air Patrol and the Wreaths Across America program, played a crucial role in raising awareness and rallying support for this meaningful day. Finally, in 2014, Congress passed a resolution designating the third Saturday in December as National Cemetery Celebrated Wreath Day.

Participating in Wreath-Laying Ceremonies

On National Cemetery Celebrated Wreath Day, people from all walks of life gather at cemeteries nationwide to participate in wreath-laying ceremonies. Armed with beautiful wreaths adorned with red bows, we walk solemnly among the rows of grave markers, taking a moment to reflect on the sacrifices made by those who have served in the military.

Spreading the Message of Gratitude

A key aspect of National Cemetery Celebrated Wreath Day is the spreading of gratitude and awareness. By participating in wreath-laying ceremonies or sharing the significance of this day on social media, we can ensure that the memory of our fallen heroes lives on. It is a time to remind ourselves and others of the price paid for our freedom and express our everlasting gratitude.



History behind the term 'Cemetery Celebrated Wreath'


1920

The Rise of Cemeteries

During the 19th century, cemeteries became popular in many countries as the final resting place for the deceased. These carefully landscaped burial grounds provided a serene and peaceful environment for mourning and remembrance. As their popularity grew, people started to adorn graves with wreaths as a symbol of respect and remembrance.


1580

The Origins of the Cemetery

The term 'cemetery' traces its origins back to 1580 when it was derived from the Greek word 'koimeterion' meaning 'a sleeping place'. The Greeks used this word to refer to burial grounds, which were often considered sacred and peaceful places. Over time, the word 'cemetery' came to be commonly used in English-speaking countries to describe a place where the deceased are laid to rest.


1380

The Birth of the Cemetery

In the year 1380, the term 'cemetery' was first used to describe a consecrated burial ground. It originated from the Latin word 'coemeterium,' which was derived from the Greek word 'koimeterion,' meaning 'a place of rest for the dead.' This marked the beginning of the concept of organized burial grounds, separate from churchyards and individual graves in one's own property.



1852

The creation of the first public garden cemetery

In 1852, Mount Auburn Cemetery in Massachusetts became the first public garden cemetery in the United States. Previously, burials were mainly conducted in churchyards or family plots. This new concept of a cemetery as a beautiful and serene park-like space for commemorating loved ones revolutionized burial practices.


1600s

Cemeteries emerge as burial grounds

In the early 1600s, cemeteries began to emerge as designated burial grounds. Prior to this, burials often took place in churchyards or family plots. The establishment of cemeteries marked a shift towards creating dedicated spaces for burying the deceased, separate from religious institutions.


1866

Wreaths as a significant funerary symbol

Wreaths have long been associated with death and mourning. In 1866, during the Victorian era, wreaths became a significant funerary symbol. They were commonly placed on graves to honor and remember the deceased. The circular shape of the wreath symbolized eternity and the cycle of life.



1734

Wreaths Enter the Scene

Around the year 1734, wreaths started to become a popular decorative item for funerals and memorial services. The circular shape and evergreen materials symbolized eternity and the cyclical nature of life. Wreaths were made from various materials like fresh or dried flowers, leaves, and sometimes even included ribbons and foliage. These symbolic wreaths quickly gained popularity and became an integral part of funeral customs in many cultures.


1800s

Rise of cemetery decorations

During the 1800s, the practice of decorating graves with wreaths and flowers became increasingly popular. Families would adorn the final resting places of their loved ones with beautiful wreaths as a way to honor and remember them. This tradition of cemetery decoration helped create a sense of beauty and serenity in these spaces.


1865

The Popularity of Cemetery Celebrations

In the year 1865, the practice of celebrating the memory of the deceased in cemeteries gained popularity. Families and friends would visit gravesites on special occasions, such as anniversaries or birthdays, and offer tributes to their loved ones. One common way to honor the departed was by placing wreaths of flowers on their graves. These cemetery celebrations became a way for people to maintain a connection with the deceased and reflect on their lives.



1935

The Arrival of Celebrated Wreaths

In the mid-1930s, the concept of a 'celebrated wreath' started to emerge. These wreaths were not only used to honor the deceased but also to celebrate their lives and pay tribute to their achievements. The idea was to create wreaths that incorporated elements that represented the person's passions, hobbies, or notable accomplishments.


1860s

First Memorial Day observance

In the aftermath of the American Civil War, Memorial Day (originally known as Decoration Day) was established in the United States as a day to honor fallen soldiers. This annual observance, which began in the 1860s, included the tradition of decorating graves with wreaths and flowers. It served as a significant catalyst for the popularity of cemetery celebrated wreaths.


Late 19th Century

The Significant Symbolism of Wreaths

During the late 19th century, wreaths became a significant symbol in cemetery celebrations. The circular shape of the wreath was representative of eternity and continuity, while the various flowers used in the wreath carried their own symbolic meanings. For example, roses symbolized love and remembrance, while lilies represented purity and rebirth. The cemetery celebrated wreath became a powerful symbol of both grief and hope, serving as a visual representation of the enduring bond between the living and the departed.



Late 1800s

The rise of wreath-laying ceremonies

As cemetery landscapes evolved and became more ornate, the practice of wreath-laying ceremonies gained popularity. These ceremonies involved placing a wreath adorned with flowers or evergreen foliage on a grave as a tribute to the departed. They provided an opportunity for loved ones to gather, reflect, and commemorate the lives of those who had passed away.


1952

The Birth of the Cemetery Celebrated Wreath

In 1952, the term 'cemetery celebrated wreath' was coined to describe these unique and personal tributes. The use of this term gained traction and became widely known to refer to wreaths that were designed to celebrate the life of the deceased in a meaningful and personalized way. Cemetery celebrated wreaths became an integral part of funeral traditions, allowing loved ones to create a lasting tribute to the departed.


1815

Wreaths at Cemeteries

By 1815, the tradition of placing wreaths at cemeteries had become widespread. As cemeteries evolved into communal spaces for visits and remembrance, families and friends would adorn graves with wreaths as a way to honor and remember their loved ones. The cemetery became a place not just for burial but also for solace and reflection, and wreaths became a visible symbol of devotion and remembrance.



20th Century

Modern Traditions and Memorial Wreaths

In the 20th century, cemetery celebrations and the use of wreaths evolved further. Memorial Day, which originated in the United States after the Civil War, became a significant day for honoring fallen soldiers, and wreaths played a central role in these commemorations. Organizations like the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars began placing wreaths on military graves as a symbol of remembrance and gratitude. Today, wreaths are a common sight in cemeteries during various memorial events and holidays, serving as a poignant reminder of our collective history and the sacrifices made by those who came before us.


1868

The Birth of Decoration Day

In the aftermath of the American Civil War, Decoration Day was established in 1868, which later evolved into Memorial Day. This annual observance aimed to honor the Union soldiers who died during the Civil War. The practice of decorating graves with wreaths and flowers became an essential part of the day's activities, signifying respect and remembrance for the fallen soldiers.


20th century

Widespread tradition of cemetery wreath celebrations

Over time, the tradition of celebrating wreaths in cemeteries became widespread across various cultures and countries. It became common to observe special days or events dedicated to honoring the deceased by placing wreaths on graves. These celebrations often involved religious or cultural rituals, as well as community gatherings.



Late 1800s

Floral tributes gain prominence

During the late 1800s, the practice of placing floral tributes, including wreaths, on graves became even more widespread. This was influenced by the Victorian era's emphasis on elaborate mourning rituals and the expression of grief. The use of wreaths as symbols of remembrance and respect gained prominence during this period.


20th Century

Cemetery Celebrated Wreath

Over time, the combination of cemetery and celebrated wreath became a widely recognized term associated with the act of placing wreaths on graves in cemeteries. As various cultures and countries adopted the practice of honoring their deceased with wreaths in cemeteries, the cemetery celebrated wreath became a powerful symbol of commemoration and a visual representation of the enduring connection between the living and the deceased.


20th century

Continued tradition of wreath tributes

Throughout the 20th century, the tradition of using wreaths as tributes in cemeteries continued to be practiced. This tradition extended beyond Memorial Day, with wreaths often being placed on graves during various commemorative occasions, such as Veterans Day and All Souls' Day. The cemetery celebrated wreath became a symbol of remembrance, honoring the lives of the deceased.



Present

Continuing the tradition of cemetery celebratory wreaths

Today, the tradition of cemetery celebratory wreaths endures as a way to show respect, remembrance, and love for the departed. Many people still visit cemeteries during memorial or special days, such as Veterans Day or All Souls' Day, to lay wreaths on graves and participate in ceremonies to honor those who have passed away.


Did you know?

Did you know that the tradition of placing wreaths on graves dates back to ancient civilizations? The Greeks and Romans would often lay wreaths made of laurel leaves as a symbol of honor and remembrance.

Tagged

awareness rememberance

First identified

20th December 2020

Most mentioned on

20th December 2020

Total mentions

11

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