An observance that started during the Civil War continues Monday as Memorial Day ceremonies are held in most communities across Crawford County.

Although historians can’t agree on exactly when the tradition of coming together to remember those who served their country started, most agree it was about the time of the Civil War.

At that time, people placed flowers on the graves of Civil War veterans and then gathered for speeches of remembrance.

It has since expanded to a day where not only veterans are remembered, but others who have died as well.

Although all the other services across the county are set for Monday, the service in Southside Cemetery, Shermansville, will be held one day earlier, at 2 p.m. Sunday, with John Amato, chief master sergeant with the U.S. Air Force Reserves, as guest speaker. The cemetery is located south of Shermansville on Canal Road. Those attending are advised to turn on to Conley just before you get to Route 285 on the right-hand side. The service is open to the community.

n More information: Call 382-3603 or 282-3448.

All other observances are on Monday.

Meadville

Activities in Meadville will begin at 8 a.m. with the High Mark Blue Cross/Blue Shield 5-H Human Race and Citizens Fitness Walk.

At 10, the official parade begins at Penn Plaza, traveling from Terrace Street to Water Strees and then up Chestnut Street to Diamond Park for the official observance at 11.

“In Loving Memory for Sacrifice That Kept Us Free” is the theme for the observance sponsored by the Meadville Area Memorial Day Committee.

The official observance will include a welcome by Joe Galbo III, chairman. A Revere Bell will be struck 11 times at Meadville Baptist Church and a salute to the flag will be led by the Legion of Honor Guard. The Pledge of Allegiance will be led by Galbo.

A combined band will perform the national anthem and Lt. Richard Allen, chaplain with the Pennsylvania National Guard, will give the invocation and benediction.

Meadville Mayor Richard Friedberg will greet guests, followed by the program by the guest speaker, retired Brig. Gen. Patricia Genung.