What Year Was the First Wreath Laying?

The first wreath laying that inspired what is now known as Wreaths Across America took place in 1992.

That year, Worcester Wreath Company found itself with a surplus of holiday wreaths near the end of the season. Rather than let the wreaths go unused, company owner Morrill Worcester arranged for them to be transported to Arlington National Cemetery, where volunteers placed the wreaths on veterans’ graves in a simple act of gratitude and remembrance.

What began as a small gesture quickly grew into a national movement dedicated to honoring America’s fallen heroes, supporting veterans and their families, and teaching future generations the value of freedom.

To learn more about the history and mission of Wreaths Across America, visit the Wreaths Across America Mission Page.