The Union County Museum will conduct an exhibit on John A. Logan and his involvement in the creation of Memorial Day. This year marks the 150th anniversary of the creation of Decoration Day by the Grand Army of the Republic in 1868. The G.A.R. was an organization made up of Union veterans from the Civil War. Logan served as commander-in-chief, and he also developed the proclamation to annually honor our nation’s war dead. Hence the practice evolved into a national holiday that became Memorial Day. A day to remember all those who served in the military.
The display will feature a variety of artifacts related to Memorial Day and to the G.A.R. The exhibit will include ribbons from veteran’s events held in Murphysboro, Carbondale and other local communities, booklets honoring Logan as the founder of Memorial Day, programs from events that Logan was the featured speaker, G.A.R. and Logan memorabilia, sheet music, in addition to other rare and unique items.
The exhibit will start on Saturday, May 5 and will be on display until Sunday, June 3. The Union County Museum is located in downtown Cobden, Ill. and hours are Saturday/Sunday, 1-5p.m.
The museum will also continue its exhibit on the early history of Union County. The county and state are both currently celebrating its bicentennial. The display includes copies of the 1818 Union County census, 1819 Jonesboro Township poll book, list of the 1807 and 1813 squatters, and other local historical facts.
