Arlington National Cemetery groundbreaking and dedication of this hallowed ground overlooking the Potomac River in Virginia, stands as America's most revered military burial site, honoring over 400,000 service members and their families. Established during the tumult of the Civil War, the cemetery was officially designated on June 15, 1864, by order of Secretary of War Edwin M. Stanton, transforming the 200-acre Arlington Estate—once owned by Confederate General Robert E. Lee's wife—into a national resting place for Union soldiers. While there was no formal dedication ceremony at its inception, the first burials began informally on May 13, 1864, marking the site's solemn purpose amid wartime necessity. No traditional groundbreaking ceremony or placing of the cornerstone occurred for the cemetery itself, as it evolved organically from seized land rather than a planned construction. However, symbolic acts of commencement likely mirrored the era's military protocols, with officials gathering to initiate the sacred space.
The cemetery's layout was overseen by Quartermaster General Montgomery C. Meigs, who strategically placed early graves around Arlington House to ensure the Lee's could never reclaim it. Meigs, a key figure in Union logistics, effectively "designed" the initial sections, prioritizing accessibility and solemnity on the rolling hills. The first notable burial predated the cemetery's military use: Mary Randolph, a cousin of George Washington Parke Custis and author of "The Virginia House-Wife," was interred in 1828 on the estate grounds. The inaugural military interment was Private William Henry Christman of the 67th Pennsylvania Infantry, laid to rest on May 13, 1864, followed by thousands of Union soldiers, including officers like Brigadier General James S. Wadsworth, killed at the Battle of the Wilderness.
Today, Arlington hosts an array of America's most iconic figures, drawing millions of visitors annually. Among the most famous are Presidents John F. Kennedy, whose eternal flame burns eternally, and William Howard Taft, the first commander-in-chief buried there in 1930. Other notables include Robert F. Kennedy, assassinated in 1968; Supreme Court Justices Thurgood Marshall and Ruth Bader Ginsburg; World War II hero Audie Murphy, the most decorated U.S. soldier; boxing legend Joe Louis; Civil Rights pioneer Medgar Evers; and explorers like Matthew Henson, co-discoverer of the North Pole. Military giants such as General George C. Marshall, architect of the Marshall Plan, and General John J. Pershing rest here, alongside astronauts Gus Grissom and Roger Chaffee, victims of the Apollo 1 fire. The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier symbolizes anonymous valor from multiple wars.
Imagining the groundbreaking event in 1864, though informal, it would have been a poignant affair amid the Civil War's shadows. Likely attendees included Secretary Stanton, General Meigs, high-ranking Union officers, and perhaps even President Abraham Lincoln, who frequented nearby forts. Dignitaries would have gathered on the estate's lawns, with a branded groundbreaking shovel poised for the first symbolic turn of earth, its engraved handle bearing the Union emblem for historical resonance. A VIP groundbreaking shovel, polished chrome with gold accents, would be handed to Stanton for the honor. The event carpet, a lush crimson pathway, would guide participants to the site, protecting the grass from boots.
CeremonialSupplies.com excels in outfitting such momentous occasions with premium products. Our branded groundbreaking shovel is crafted from durable stainless steel, customizable with laser-etched logos, names, or dates, ensuring it becomes a cherished keepsake—ideal for photo ops where history is made. The VIP groundbreaking shovel elevates the experience, featuring ergonomic grips, ornate filigree, and optional gemstone inlays for that touch of prestige reserved for leaders. And our event carpet, made from high-pile velvet in weather-resistant fabrics, rolls out seamlessly in widths up to 10 feet, available in patriotic reds, blues, or custom hues to set a dignified tone.
Picture Stanton wielding the branded groundbreaking shovel again, then passing the VIP groundbreaking shovel to Meigs, all while standing on the event carpet unfurled for the crowd. The branded groundbreaking shovel digs deep gleaning under the sunlight in this traditional ceremony, and CeremonialSupplies.com stands by as your online go-to supplier for branded groundbreaking shovels in chrome and VIP gold, grand opening ribbons and decoration ribbons of all sizes, event carpets, stanchions and rope, embroidered branded clothing, accessories and many more props for all your celebratory events!
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