According to the town’s website, in 1966 Congress unanimously passed a resolution to officially recognize Waterloo as the birthplace of the holiday. However, it remains a contentious debate, with other towns, like Boalsburg, Pa., claiming the title of “Birthplace of Memorial Day” as well.
7 Things You Didn’t Know About Memorial Day
Memorial Day is not all sunshine and hot dogs — it's a day for remembrance. Here, TIME presents some little-known facts about the start-of-summer holiday
Waterloo, NY is considered the birthplace of Memorial Day
Full List
Memorial Day Facts
- Beyond the Barbecues
- It was originally called Decoration Day
- It wasn’t always celebrated the last Monday of May
- Observe a National Moment of Remembrance — It’s the Law
- James A. Garfield delivered a rather lengthy speech at the first Memorial Day ceremony
- Several states observe Confederate Memorial Day
- Waterloo, NY is considered the birthplace of Memorial Day
- Nearly 35 million Americans are expected to travel this Memorial Day