Stones River National Battlefield Celebrates Decoration Day

On May 1st 1865 thousands of formerly enslaved people marched to a Union cemetery near Charleston, South Carolina. The marchers laid fresh-cut flowers at the graves, sang songs and celebrated their freedom, purchased at such a great cost during the Civil War.

In the years following the end of the war, communities such as the Cemetery Community continued to celebrate their freedom and honor the sacrifices that made it possible on Decoration Day.

Join us as we connect the present to the past with a celebration of our own that reminds us of the connection between the Civil War and the continuing struggle to ensure Civil Rights for all of us.

PROGRAM SCHEDULE

11:30 AM – Bringing Into Remembrance – Enjoy a musical, theatrical presentation that recounts the origins and meaning of Decoration Day.

Noon – Decoration of Stones River National Cemetery

1-3 PM – Food & Fun – Enjoy a number of games including cornhole, horse shoes and decorating a Maypole. Stop by the food trucks for some lunch, and spend some time admiring exhibits created by local African American artists.