Labor Day History

If asked, how many of America’s youth could give the reason we celebrate on Labor Day? I know I was never taught that information in school. But after researching, I’m proud to be a part of the holiday.

Labor Day is the first Monday in September, much like Thanksgiving is the last Thursday in November. It is dedicated to the average American worker, to their strengths, their contributions and their achievements as they support our country. Below are facts gathered from various sources, each relating to this great holiday celebration?

There is still some question as to who initiated the holiday. It seems the running is between Peter J. McGuire and Matthew Maguire. Peter J. McGuire held the position of General Secretary of the Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners as well as being a co-founder of the American Federation of Labor. Matthew Maguire, a machinist and eventually a member of the International Association of Machinists in New Jersey, possibly suggested the holiday to the Central Labor Union in New York.

Labor Day was first celebrated, not as a national holiday but rather a local celebration for the Central Labor Union in New York, on September 5Th, 1882. The following year it was also celebrated on September 5Th. It wasn’t until 1884 that the first Monday was adopted.

By 1885 the idea had spread through other city centers of America and was growing rapidly. Slowly other states wrote the holiday into legislator. It wasn’t until June 28, 1894, however, that it was passed in Congress and made a legal holiday.

According to the Department of Labor, as originally outlined, the celebration should include, “a street parade to exhibit to the public the strength and esprit de corps of the trade and labor organizations of the community, followed by a festival for the recreation and amusement of the workers and their families”.

Labor Day began as a way to honor those who go to grueling, physically assaulting jobs day in and day out and labor for the simple things we take for granted in life. So instead of just being glad that school’s out for a day or that you don’t have to go to work, also recognize those that experienced the hardships associated with industrial America in the late 1800’s.