HAPPY LABOR DAY!!!

Most people think of Labor Day as that last three-day weekend in summer when they can get away on vacation, or have the last “big” backyard barbeque.  Many even view it as the unofficial end of summer since most schools will now be back in session.  Yet for some, it’s the last day that they feel they can still wear white clothing without getting snide glances from people.

While these are all true to an extent, the real meaning and purpose for the day goes back much farther.  The holiday grew out of the efforts of the labor movement in the 19^th century.  Through those efforts many states began to set aside a date to celebrate workers, and in 1894 Labor Day officially became a federal holiday.  Observed on the first Monday in September, it pays tribute to and celebrates the many contributions and achievements of American workers.

This 3-cent Labor Day Commemorative U.S. Postage Stamp 

was issued on September 3, 1956.

So on this last summer holiday, by all means give your white clothing a final outing and celebrate with barbeques, parties, parades, boating and sports events, but first take a moment to thank those hard workers who made this all possible.

“Labor is the United States.  The men and women who, with their minds, their hearts and hands, create the wealth that is shared in this country – they are America.”

Dwight D. Eisenhower

President of the United States

At Dedication of AFL-CIO Building

Washington, D.C., June 4, 1956