On this day in history, May 30, 1868, the first Decoration Day —
a precursor to Memorial Day — was celebrated.

Originally known as Decoration Day, from early traditions of
decorating graves with flags, flowers and wreaths, Memorial
Day is a day for remembrance to honor those who have died
in service to our country.

According to PBS,"This was first widely observed on May 30,
1868, to commemorate the sacrifices of Civil War soldiers, by proclamation of Gen. John A. Logan of the Grand Army of the
Republic, an organization of former Union sailors and soldiers," according to PBS.