Memorial Day

May 22nd, 2026
by Evelyn Keele

Let Us Remember

As we celebrate the 250th year of American Independence this year, there will be many patriotic celebrations and parades. We start the approach of a season focusing on history with the patriotic red, white, and blue decorations of Memorial Day.

Memorial Day dedication at Ridgecrest Cemetery, c. 1980.

Memorial Day began as a way to remember soldiers who died in the Civil War and it became a day of remembrance for the soldiers who gave their lives in all the wars in our nation's history.
Our Special Collections in the Tennessee Room contain items that poignantly reflect the personal effects of war on local families.

The letter to Corp. James E. Cocks was returned to the family as undeliverable. The penciled word "deceased" was written left of his address and stamped through his name.

Our holdings include several World War I and World War II collections, showing us the sacrifice of Madison County soldiers like Corp. James E. Cocks, Chaplain John A. Deaver, and 2nd Lieut. Vernon Harris, who gave their lives in the service of their country.

For more about the origin of Memorial Day click here.

The words of 41st President George H. W. Bush express this cost we acknowledge on Memorial Day:
“Each of the patriots whom we remember on this day was first a beloved son or daughter, a brother or sister, or a spouse, friend, and neighbor.” — George H. W. Bush

Click here for other Memorial Day thoughts by U. S. Presidents.

Posted in Memorial Day