Williston North Dakota Revives Historic Civil War-Era Memorial Day March

For generations, Memorial Day in Williston was marked not only by ceremonies and speeches, but by a meaningful walk of remembrance. This year, that tradition will come alive once again as the Fort Buford Sixth Infantry Regimental Association hosts a solemn Memorial Day march on Monday, May 25.

The event will begin at 7:00 a.m. at the Old Armory. Members of the Sixth Infantry will march north along 1st Avenue East, continue west on 6th Street, and make their way to Riverview Cemetery. The route is designed to mirror the early Memorial Day observances once carried out in Williston by Civil War veterans themselves.

Get our free mobile app

From Decoration Day to Memorial Day: A Tradition Rooted in Remembrance

Long before Memorial Day became a three-day weekend filled with travel and barbecues, it was known as Decoration Day. The observance was officially established in 1868 when General John A. Logan called for Americans to decorate the graves of soldiers who died defending the nation during the Civil War.

Historical accounts published in the old Williston Graphic newspaper reveal just how important those observances once were to the local community. One account described citizens marching together to the cemetery “where services were held over the graves of our departed heroes.” Another recalled American flags flying at half-mast while graves were decorated in honor of the fallen.

Read More: Tom Kvamme’s Lasting Impact On Williston North Dakota Will Be Honored May 25

Honoring Civil War Veterans Through a Restored Tradition

The ceremony at Riverview Cemetery will continue that spirit of remembrance. Members of the Sixth Infantry will place American flags on each of the 25 Union veterans’ graves located in the cemetery. The information identifying those graves was originally compiled by late local historian Adrienne Stepanek. Organizers will also recognize two soldiers who served in the United States Colored Troops, along with two Confederate soldiers buried at the cemetery.

The event is intended to restore a deeply personal tradition once carried out by aging Civil War veterans who continued honoring their comrades for as long as they physically could. Organizers say the focus is not on grandeur, but sincerity and respect.

Community Invited to Attend Williston’s Main Memorial Day Ceremony

This year’s march serves as a reminder that Memorial Day is ultimately about remembrance, gratitude, and honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice for the country.