Lee Jackson Day
Observed on the Friday before Martin Luther King Day, Lee-Jackson Day is a state holiday in Virginia. The purpose of this holiday is to commemorate and honor two Confederate leaders of the Civil War: Thomas “Stonewall” Jackson and Robert E. Lee. Over the years, controversy has begun to surround this holiday, and some groups and communities no longer support it, although it is still celebrated in many parts of Virginia.
United States (State holiday) - VirginiaHistory of Lee-Jackson Day
Lee-Jackson Day can be traced back to 1889 when it was merely a holiday to commemorate the birthday of Robert E. Lee. Later on, in 1904, it was also used to celebrate the birthday of Thomas J. Jackson, and its name was hyphenated to reflect that fact. In 1983, the holiday became a part of the celebration of Martin Luther King Jr. Day—a day that had just become a federal holiday. However, that decision was reversed in 2000, and Lee-Jackson Day was moved to the Friday before Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
Confederate General Robert E. Lee Facts
- Robert E. Lee graduated second in his West Point graduating class.
- Robert E. Lee and Mary Custis had seven children together.
- Mary Custis was Martha Washington’s great-granddaughter.
- Robert E. Lee was initially against the Civil War.
- Robert E. Lee was buried without his shoes.
Confederate General Thomas Jonathan Jackson Facts
- Was a colonel at the beginning of the Civil War.
- Promoted to Brigadier General in June 1861.
- On May 2, 1863, was accidentally shot by one of his own soldiers.
- Participated in seven Civil War battles.
Lee-Jackson Day Customs & Celebrations
In some cities in Virginia, Lee-Jackson Day is celebrated all day with parades, public displays of Confederate flags, special guest speakers, BBQs, luncheons, and Civil War re-enactments.
Some people may use the day to go on a day trip with their family to visit some of the Civil War monuments in the commonwealth, which includes the Confederate Memorial in Arlington National Cemetery; the bronze statue Appomattox in Alexandria, Virginia; the Confederate Monument in Portsmouth, Virginia; Monument Avenue in Richmond; or perhaps a visit to Stonewall Jackson Lake State Park.
Since this day is a state holiday in Virginia, many state offices are closed. However, most schools and businesses remain open on this day. Public transportation may operate on a holiday schedule, so it’s best to check ahead of time.
United States (State holiday) - Virginia
