Happy Presidents’ Day from the Jefferson County Post

The third Monday of February is more than just an extra day off in the shortest month.  Originally established in 1885 to celebrate George Washington’s birthday, Presidents’ Day was initially observed on February 22.  The federal government still calls the day “Washington’s Birthday,” but since the Uniform Monday Holiday Act in 1971, the day is now commonly known as Presidents’ Day.

The change from Washington’s Birthday to Presidents’ day began in 1968, when the Uniform Monday Holiday Act was first proposed. The effort to give American workers more three day weekends failed that time around, but would eventually be passed in 1971, with an executive order by Richard Nixon. With the holiday shifting from February 22 to the third Monday of the month, many were led to believe that the day was meant to honor both Washington and Lincoln, because the day fell between the two presidents birthdays. By the early 2000’s most states had changed their calendars to say Presidents’ day instead of Washington’s Birthday.

The day is now used to reflect on all American Presidents, and over the years has gained a more patriotic observance, much like Independence Day and Veterans Day.  Retailers also use the holiday to boost mid-winter sales, with special sales events for the extended weekend.