Per my Grandma’s request, or as many of you know her, Nona Gail, this week’s topic of discussion is regarding Decoration Day. 

One day in the newsroom this summer, Seth and I were describing Decoration Days we’ve been a part of. Seth recounted his experience at New Union Cemetery while I talked about Armstrong Cemetery Picnic. Atlanta, whose desk is beside mine, looked up in confusion responding, “A picnic in a cemetery?” She had never heard the term.

So, what is a Decoration Day? It’s a day when community members gather to remember and honor loved ones lost, fellowship with one another and raise money for the upkeep of the grounds. Oh yeah, and it takes place at a cemetery.

Cleaning is an integral part of any Decoration Day. This typically involves removing grass and weeds around graves as well as removing grime from the stone itself. Many families adorn headstones with flowers including wreaths, saddles or flowers in urns. Figurines and other knickknacks can also be found displayed near or on graves.

In girlhood, I helped with the concession sales at Armstrong, which is really how I first learned how to count back money. I also enjoyed playing through the cemetery with other kids my age. 

My grandparents would always socialize while everyone waited for the auction to begin. 

Sadly, it seems like a fading tradition as some cemetery Decoration Days are declining in participation. I’ll admit. I’ve not been to the Armstrong Cemetery Picnic in quite some time. Now that I’m a McMinnville resident, I really need to start going again. 

I’m sure if you’ve never been to a Decoration Day the concept seems, well, odd or even morbid. Here’s the thing, a well-kept cemetery is a beautiful and peaceful place. At Armstrong, my sister is buried in the corner and the view of mountainside below is lovely. 

So how do we preserve Decoration Day? From my observation of successful ones like Mt. Zion Cemetery’s which attracted 2,000 people this year, offering entertainment and kid-friendly activities increases attendance. 

Obviously, I can’t speak for all young people, but maybe they want a verbal invite to encourage attendance. Maybe they haven’t lost anyone close to them and need a reminder of its importance. Once Leah passed, my perspective on cemeteries changed immensely. 

Ultimately, the main purpose is to honor the dead and reaffirm the ties of the living to them. It’s also like a big family reunion as everyone story swaps of the past and shares family history with youngsters. The money raised through concessions and auctions is used for the upkeep of the cemetery, which is year round.

If you’ve never been to a Decoration Day, I encourage you to attend or volunteer at the cemetery where your kin are buried. Next year, I’ll be at the Armstrong Picnic so consider this your personal invite if you haven’t been in a while.

Standard reporter Lacy Garrison can be reached at 473-2191.