The GENERAL MEADE SOCIETY of PHILADELPHIA had several events scheduled for 2020 – 2021 that due to the pandemic were unfortunately cancelled or postponed until later dates. Events and their details to be announced as more information is available.
……………………………………….
Thursday, December 31 at Noon
Annual General Meade Birthday Celebration
The annual General Meade Birthday Celebration will mark the 204th anniversary of the birth of General George G. Meade, commander of the Union Army at the Battle of Gettysburg. A parade of Civil War re-enactors, civilians in period attire, special dignitaries, heritage groups and participants will advance to Meade’s final resting place and memorialize his services to his nation. A 21-gun salute will cap off the program at graveside.
The event will take place on Thursday, December 31 at 12:00 pm, departing from Laurel Hill Cemetery’s Gatehouse entrance at 3822 Ridge Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19132. Free parking is located in the lot across the street from the Gatehouse. Please arrive at 11:30 AM
This event is FREE and open to the public but RSVPs are required and limited to 10 people; a $5 donation in support of the Friends of Laurel Hill & West Laurel Hill Cemeteries is appreciated.
Social Distancing Guidelines for In-Person Events
To maintain the safety of guests and staff the following guidelines are in effect for all in-person tours:
- RSVPs for this event are limited.
- There will be a table set up in the courtyard for check-in. A staff person will ask three screening questions before admitting guests on the tour to make sure guests have not been exposed to COVID 19 in the past two weeks. (If you think you have been exposed to Covid-19, please email info@thelaurelhillcemetery.org and we will issue you a credit for your ticket purchase).
- The accessible bathroom will be available to use and cleaned before the tour.
- Anyone older than 2 years of age must wear a mask or facial covering over their nose and mouth at all times
- Everyone at the event is asked to practice social distancing with anyone outside of their household
- A staff person will be on hand to ensure that these guidelines are followed
2021 Events:
Sunday, January 17, 2021 – POSTPONED!
General Meade Society Champagne Brunch & Awards Ceremony
THIS EVENT HAS BEEN POSTPONED
UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE !!
Join the Gen. Meade Society of Philadelphia for its annual DeLuxe Champagne Brunch & Awards Ceremony, presenting the Society ‘Award of Merit’
Cannstatter Volksfest Verein
9130 Academy Road, Philadelphia, PA 19114
To reserve: 215-848-7753 OR gedwinmc@msn.com
Friday, February 12, 2021
Annual Lincoln Birthday Celebration Parade and Ceremonies
sponsored by the Union League of Philadelphia.
Civil War military units, civilians, and heritage groups are welcome and encouraged to march in the parade through Philadelphia to Independence Hall to honor President Lincoln on his birthday. Participants will gather at the Union League, 140 S. Broad St. by 10am.
Complimentary parking is available at Laz Garage on the N.W. corner of 15th & Sansom St. only. There are no reimbursements for those who park elsewhere. Arrive between 9:00am – 10:00am and obtain a parking pass from a guard at the Sansom St. Entrance, opposite the Union League garage. Proceed to Laz garage at 114 S 15th St to park. Return to the Union League. Color Guards, Firing Party, music, and wreaths are appreciated. There will be a complimentary lunch for the participants at 12 noon. After the parade ALL are invited to return to the Union League via coach for refreshments and entertainment in the historic League House.
To register: Contact: Dr. Andy Waskie. 215-423-3930 or awaski01@gmail.com
Saturday, February 20, 2021 at 11am
Annual Major Octavius V. Catto Honor Ceremony
Honor ceremony; wreath laying; military salute at the Catto Monument at the South Front of City Hall at 11:00am
Honoring the great African-American equal rights and military leader
Wreath-Laying ceremony. All military units, period civilians, veterans and heritage groups are encouraged to participate. Colors, wreaths and music encouraged.
Following the City Hall Ceremony: PA National Guard Award Luncheon & Medal Ceremony to follow at 12:30pm in the Union League for the ‘Major Catto Medal’ Award Ceremony
Contact: Mary O’Brien at the Union League to reserve lunch:
obrienm@unionleague.org
Information: Dr. Andy Waskie
awaski01@gmail.com
Saturday, February 20, 2021 at 12:30pm
The Armed Services Council Presents
The Major OV Catto Awards
Ceremony & Luncheon
The Major Octavius V. Catto Honor Ceremony will begin at 11am, with lunch to follow. We will meet at the new OV Catto Monument at the S.W. corner of City Hall at 11:00am for the wreath laying and honor volleys and taps.
Honoring the great black equal rights and military leader with a wreath-laying ceremony. All military units, period civilians, veterans and heritage groups are encouraged to participate. Colors, wreaths and music encouraged. Then come back to the League for a delicious lunch starting at 12:30pm. There will be a signature/cash bar available. Price: $35 inclusive
Sunday, April 11, 2021
21st Annual Annual Meade Society History Symposium at the Conservatory at West Laurel Hill Cemetery, Bala Cynwyd, PA
12 noon at the Conservatory at West Laurel Hill Cemetery, Bala Cynwyd, PA
Speakers on the topic – ‘The War with Mexico; Training Ground of the Civil War’
Contact: Jerry McCormick 215-848-7753; or gedwinmc@msn.com
Featuring noted historians and speakers, and authors on the life and career of the Victor of Gettysburg, as well as books, prints and raffles. 12 Noon – 5PM
Conservatory at West Laurel Hill Cemetery, Bala Cynwyd, PA
http://westlaurelhill.com/
Cost: $40 per person including registration; luncheon & refreshments
Contact: Jerry McCormick 215-848-7753;
email: gedwinmc@msn.com