A History of Labor Day

History of Labor Day

Labor Day is an annual celebration of American workers' social and economic achievements. Before it was a federal holiday, Labor Day was recognized by labor activists and individual states.

New York Labor Day Celebration 1882

New York Labor Day Celebration 1882

New York was the first state to introduce a bill. However, Oregon was the first to pass a law recognizing Labor Day, on February 21, 1887. Later in 1887, four more states:

  • Colorado,
  • Massachusetts,
  • New Jersey and
  • New York

passed laws creating a Labor Day holiday. By the end of the decade

  • Connecticut,
  • Nebraska and
  • Pennsylvania

had followed suit. By 1894, 23 more states had adopted the holiday. On June 28, 1894, Congress passed an act making the first Monday in September of each year a legal holiday in the United States.

Labor Day Celebrations

Many Americans celebrate Labor Day with parades, picnics, and parties. Festivities very similar to those outlined by the first proposal for a holiday suggested that the day should be observed with – a street parade to exhibit "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. This became the pattern for the celebrations of Labor Day.

Visit the following websites for ideas on things to do in Nebraska, Iowa, South Dakota, and Oklahoma over Labor Day weekend.

As we reflect back on the history of Labor Day, we wish all of our clients and team members a happy and refreshing Labor Day!

Design with Purpose. Build with Confidence.

Schemmer is a full-service architecture, engineering, and construction field services, consultant. Providing responsible solutions for complex design and construction-related challenges.

Founded in 1959, we are grounded in our past but remain fully committed to the future. Located in four states and eight offices throughout the Midwest, Schemmer is providing services to clients from coast-to-coast and border-to-border across the United States.

Schemmer's services include:

Contact Us Today!