The origin of Labor Day in the USA was when a machinist, Matthew Maguire, who served as the secretary of the Central Labor Union, proposed the holiday in 1882. This would be and is a day to recognize and show appreciation for the workers.
My state, Oregon, was the first state to make it an official holiday in 1887. It would take seven more years until the Federal Government made Labor Day an official holiday for the country.
Labor Day is considered the last big weekend for summer. School used to start right after Labor Day, but now starts at various dates across the nation. For many years it was considered unfashionable to wear white or seersucker after Labor Day. My how times have changed!
The ways to celebrate this holiday are endless. For many it is the last day to go camping, water skiing or taking a short trip with the family. Many towns celebrate with parades, picnics, barbecues, firework displays, and fairs.
Of course, not everyone gets Labor Day off or a Labor free weekend. Department stores have one of their biggest sales over Labor Day. Plus, there are any number of businesses that do not close their doors over Labor Day weekend.
I must say it is nice to have a holiday between July fourth and Thanksgiving. That’s what I like. Especially when I worked full time, it was a blessing to have Labor Day off!
This Labor Day I’m hoping for company and some good times.
What are your plans?
