Rose Law Group Reporter Gripe of the Week
The establishment of the Washington’s Birthday national holiday dates back to1879.
In its wisdom, however, Congress renamed and repurposed the third Monday of February holiday in 1963 as Presidents’ Day.
Whether lawmakers thought the change was justified because George chopped down the cherry tree, or all presidents should be honored — which would create at least 44 days of for American workers — Mr. Washington got hosed.
“Today many states, the media, advertisers, and the general public have abandoned recognition of Washington’s birthday and replaced it with a commercial shopping holiday that leaves American history and patriotism by the side of the road,” said James Rees, president of Mount Vernon Estate and Gardens, Washington’s Virginia home. “The holiday was far more meaningful when it revolved around George Washington, and schools were able to focus on his sterling example of character and leadership.”
And Bill Panagopulos, president of Alexander Historical Auctions, said bluntly: “History is dead.” He says schools are teaching only the highlights of early American history and that’s hurting sales of pre-1900s Americana.
Virginia Rep. Frank Wolf has tried to no avail to reestablish Washington’s Birthday for February 22.
History tells us Washington had wooden dentures. But it doesn’t note the lawmakers who changed his holiday as having wooden brains.
