Labor Day is here again. Time to hit the beach one last time, if you’re visiting the Emerald Coast. Those of us who live here will be out on the sugar sand and beautiful water for several more weeks.
It’s also time to take advantage of sales, barbeques, and an extra day off from work. You may have heard the “rule” that you can’t wear white after Labor Day, although most people ignore that these days. The tradition is older than Labor Day itself because white was rarely worn after summer. Once Labor Day was made an official holiday, it became the “official” end of summer for many.
Take a look at a few other things about Labor Day, you might not have known.
- The U.S. Labor Day holiday was inspired by Labour Day in Canada which began in 1872 in Toronto.
- The first Labor Day was celebrated on Tuesday, SEptember 5, 1882 when 10,000 workers in New York City marched from City Hall to 42nd Street. They met up with their families and had a picnic, listened to speeches, and enjoyed a concern.
- Labor Day was recognized as a federal holiday in 1894 and was set to fall on the first Monday of September.
- Labor Day originally began as part of the labor union movement to recognize the contributions of people in the workforce.
- In the 19th century, Americans worked 12 hour days. The Adamson Act, passed on September 3, 1916, established the eight-hour work day.
While you’re enjoying the beach or the shops and thankful for an extra day off from work, remember that Labor Day is more than the unofficial end to summer. It’s a day for everyone who works!
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