The Memorial Day holiday originated a few years after the Civil War as Decoration Day.
It was proclaimed by the Union veterans association known as the Grand Army of the Republic as a day to remember the victims of the war each May 30 by decorating their graves with fresh flowers.
This year the Old Stone Fort continues its tradition of observing Memorial Day on its historic date, Friday, May 30, from 5-8pm with formal ceremonies beginning at 6pm.
This free event is underwritten by Kintz Plastics and the Donna Lavigne Agency.
While honoring those killed in all of our nation's wars, the ceremony this year centers around the 150th anniversary of the death of Colonel Simon Hosack Mix of Schoharie, who was mortally wounded leading his 3rd NY Volunteer Cavalry Regiment in a dismounted charge at Petersburg, Virginia in 1864.
Although Col. Mix's body was never recovered, a monument to him was erected by his family in the Stone Fort cemetery.
One of Colonel Mix's uniforms and other personal effects are on exhibit in the museum.
The Corporal James Tanner Camp #134 of the Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War will re-dedicate that monument with an adaptation of a Grand Army of the Republic ceremony from the early 20th century.
There will also be period music performed by Uncle Billy's Balladeers, and dedication of a replica flank marker flag of the 91st NY Volunteer Infantry.
The public is invited to participate in a procession through the Old Stone Fort Cemetery with a hand-drawn wagon to decorate veterans' graves.
Donations of additional fresh flowers for the graves will be much appreciated.
A special program will involve an imaginary encounter between Mark Twain and Abraham Lincoln, who although contemporaries, never actually met.
Local historic impersonators Peter Lindemann and Don Coons will portray Lincoln and Twain, who were both famous for the way they used humor to impart words of wisdom.
Also participating in the activities will be Schoharie County American Legionnaires and Legion Riders.
Ceremonies will conclude with a Civil War military Retreat ceremony at twilight.