Confederate Decoration Day

Confederate Decoration Day will soon be here! By act of the Tennessee Legislature, each year the Governor, by proclamation, designates June 3rd "Confederate Decoration Day." It is a day on which we remember the gallant sacrifices of our ancestors, the brave men and women of the South, who fought so valiantly for Southern Independence. It is a day on which we celebrate their absolute dedication to the cause of liberty. Confederate Decoration Day is observed throughout the South. Its roots can be traced to the activities of a number of southern ladies who, more than a hundred years ago, began decorating the graves of Confederate and United States soldiers in Mississippi, and elsewhere. In due course, the state legislatures in the southern states passed laws to officially recognize Confederate Decoration Day. Years later, following their example, the United States officially established Memorial Day, giving the southern states credit for setting the precedent. The Camp's observance of Confederate Decoration Day on the first Saturday of June (June 4th) is the highlight of the Camp's annual program of events. Details follow.

The Camp will meet at 10 A.M., Saturday, June 4th, at the Sam Davis Monument on the grounds of the State Capitol, at the corner of Charlotte and 8th Avenue, in celebration of Confederate Decoration Day. The ceremony will last approximately 45 minutes and will be followed by light refreshments. This is the Camp's most important event of the year. Every member, including members who cannot attend meetings during the work week, members who do not drive at night, and members who have never attended a meeting, are strongly encouraged to attend. And, all members are requested to bring their families and their friends. The media is likely to be present, so it is critically important that a large audience attend! This is the best opportunity to celebrate our heritage in public in a reverential and dignified format. Bring a flag and wave it proudly! (Note: Attendees may also wish to bring lawn chairs.) Parking around the capitol is free and plentiful.