It’s the day that most Americans look forward to in September: Labor Day. This day gives hardworking employees a much needed day off. It is considered to be a way to observe those who work and to thank them for their efforts. This tradition has been occurring on the first Monday of September for more than 100 years. Labor Day traditionally, marks the end of summer. Many families take the opportunity to take a quick vacation before the school year really kicks in. Also popular are BBQ’s, football games and lots of big sales at retail stores.
The Creation of Labor Day
It’s not really clear who first started Labor Day. Some claim that one of the cofounders of the American Federation of Labor, Peter J. McGuire, was the first person to suggest this holiday. Others claim that a machinist named Matthew Maguire is responsible for this holiday. The first Labor Day was officially held on September 5, 1882, which was a Tuesday. The following year it was held on the same date. It wasn’t until the next year, in 1884, that the first Monday was reserved as being Labor Day. The concept of Labor Day grew very fast, especially among those that worked in industrial centers. Many people actually think that the formation of Labor Day was in response to labor disputes that took place in Canada in the 1870’s.
Interesting Facts About Labor Day
- President Grover Cleveland made Labor Day an official holiday in 1894.
- The first Waffle House opened on Labor Day in 1955. Today there are more than 1,500 Waffle House restaurants.
- In the past Labor Day represented the day that summer was officially over and individuals were supposed to put away all of their white clothes until spring. If white was worn after Labor Day it was considered to be a serious fashion faux pas. However, this tradition has decreased in popularity over the past decade.
- Oregon was the first state to officially recognize Labor Day. It became a state holiday in 1887.
- In addition to the U.S. and Canada, many other industrialized nations celebrate their own versions of Labor Day throughout the year including Australia, New Zealand and the Bahamas.
- The NFL almost always plays the first official game of the season on the Thursday after Labor Day. Can it get any better than having a day off and football all in the same week?!
- Whether you plan to take part in Labor Day festivities happening in your home town, pack away all of our white clothes or just enjoy the day off, we hope you have a great Labor Day that is filled with some much needed relaxation!
