05/25/2026
The Mason Behind Memorial Day
by Maynard Edwards
Though many Americans have come to view Memorial Day as the unofficial start of summer, the holiday itself first observed in 1868 as "Decoration Day" is, of course, meant to provide a time of remembrance for those members of the Armed forces who paid the ultimate price in the service of our nation. Most communities pause before firing up the grill to pay tribute to the fallen. All across America, wreaths are laid, taps played, and the colors lowered by members of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, the American Legion, and, of course, Masonic lodges. It is altogether fitting that Masons are highly involved in Memorial Day observances, as it was Brother John A. Logan, 32°, who is credited with formalizing a day for the remembrance of the fallen.
Born in Illinois in 1826, Logan served in the Mexican-American war in the volunteer Illinois Infantry and was elected to Congress in 1858. He was a skilled orator and often was called upon to defend the Union's political positions in the months leading up to the Civil War. When war broke out in 1861, Brother Logan quickly joined a Michigan regiment and fought at the First Battle of Bull Run. After that battle, he returned to Illinois, where he was made a Colonel of the 31st Illinois Regiment. Logan was dubbed "Black Jack" by his men because of his black eyes and hair as well as and his intense demeanor. Brother Logan, a natural leader, was quickly promoted to the rank of Major General of the volunteers. He served under General William T. Sherman until the war's end in 1865.
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