AMERICAN WORKING WOMEN

From the beginnings of America's
history, women have stood beside the
men in building and forging this great
country. When there were conflicts,
the women were willing and able to
take the place of men in the
fields and factories

A BRIEF HISTORY
OF LABOR DAY

The first American "Labor's Holiday" was held in New York on September 5, 1882.
The suggestion came from Peter McGuire who was president of a labor organization
and an active worker in another. He felt that "the industrial spirit, the great
vital force of the nation" should be honored by having one day set aside for
celebration. There was a gala parade followed by picnics and speaches. Two years
later Congress passed a bill that made this day a holiday in the District of Columbia
and all federal offices. Today it is a legal holiday in every state and territory.

From Holiday Round Up
by Lucile Pannell