Get a free quote
If you have questions about our services, plans, or pricing we are here for you. Fill out the form below and we will communicate with you by email (and of course provide you with a free estimate).
FEBRUARY 01 2022 /
What is Labor Day and Why Do We Celebrate
Labor Day, A Celebration of American Workers
For most Americans, Labor Day weekend is the unofficial end of summer. Many people celebrate with picnics, BBQs, parades, and backyard lawn games but actually, there’s a lot more to celebrate than just the end of summer as the holiday has a much deeper meaning in our country’s history.What is Labor Day?
According to the United States Department of Labor, “Labor Day is observed on the first Monday in September and recognizes both the creation of the labor movement and the social and economic achievements of American workers.” Labor day continues to be a “yearly tribute to the contributions workers have made to the strength, prosperity, and well-being of our country.”The Origins of Labor Day
September 5, 1882, was planned by The Central Labor Union as the first Labor Day. On that day, over 10,000 workers took to the streets of New York City and marched from City Hall to 42nd Street, demanding better workers rights and working conditions. The Industrial Revolution going on at that time is what sparked this demand for change. The typical U.S. worker worked 12 hour days, six days a week and in some cases, children as young as 5 were working in factories!
On June 28, 1894, the U.S. Congress passed an act declaring the first Monday in September of each year as the legal holiday, Labor Day! Then, On September 3, 1916 the Adamson Act was passed on September 3, 1916, to establish an eight-hour workday.
Labor Day today
While Americans will always use the weekend as an opportunity to gather with friends and family or take a last minute summer trip, various union-organized parades and events are still held all over the United States in celebration of Labor Day. Even in New York City, where the exact 20 block route that was marched in 1882, is marched today!
Oh and about the “no white after Labor Day” thing! Historians believe the expression comes from when the upper class would return from their summer vacations and stow away their lightweight, white summer clothes as they returned back to school and work.
For us at Killingsworth Environmental, Labor Day gives us a chance to look back and reflect on the hard work and determination that has allowed our company to grow into the 36th largest pest control company in North America and a leader in the home service industry.
We are always appreciative of our team and all that they do to keep you, your family, and your home, safe, happy, and healthy! Connect with our team.
Don’t forget, if you’ll be hosting a labor day gathering in your yard this coming weekend, be sure it looks its best, and is bug-free! (and safe!) We would love to help. Schedule an expert lawn service with us today!