In 1970, Marian McQuade, a West Virginia housewife, initiated a campaign for a special day for grandparents. The campaign spread statewide with the assistance of civic, business, church and political leaders. In 1973, West Virginia Govenor, Arch Moore, proclaimed the first Grandparents Day. Mrs. McQuade petitioned governors, senators and congressman in every state to set aside the day. Letters were sent to churches, businesses and numerous national organizations who were invested in senior citizens. In 1978, five years after its West Virginia inception, the United States Congress passed legislation proclaiming the first Sunday after Labor Day as National Grandparents Day. President Jimmy Carter signed the proclamation. September was chosen to signify the “autumn years” of life.

At the time of her passing in 2008, Marian was the mother of 15 children, grandmother to 43 grandchildren and great-grandmother to 15 great grandchildren. Marian began her work with senior issues in 1956 when she helped organize an event honoring West Virginia’s octogenarians. She served as vice-chairwoman of the West Virginia Commission on Aging and was appointed to the Nursing Home Licensing Board. For many years, she helped with the Past 80 Party, which was held annually in Richwood, WV.

Marian wanted Grandparents Day to be a family day. She envisioned families enjoying small, private gatherings, a family reunion, or participating in community events. She also wanted it to be a day of setting an example and advocating for future generations.

Grandparents Day falls on Sunday, Sept. 7, this year. Stop by the Game Room where a special bulletin board will be displayed with pictures of grandparents and their grandchildren. Everyone is welcome to add pictures to the board.