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The Derby-Shelton Parade is one of the oldest Memorial Day parades in the state. Together with a stirring memorial service held on Sunday evening before the parade, these observances have their origins with the Civil War veterans of our communities who formed the organization known as the Grand Army of the Republic, whose stated goal was to remember with appropriate solemnity their fallen comrades who died in defense of freedom.

City of Derby & City of Shelton

Memorial Day Parade & Memorial Service

Over the years, separate parades and memorial services were held in White Hills and Huntington as well as the combined efforts of Shelton and Derby. During World War II, the parades were suspended but memorial services continued to be observed. In 1961, the Memorial Day Parade Association was officially organized to carry on the tradition.

The foundation for these observances can be found in General Order Number 11, issued May 5, 1868, to the members of the Grand Army of the Republic, by its first commander, General John A. Logan.