Ernst & Haas Management Co Blog

 Labor Day is one of America's most celebrated holidays. Just like the Fourth of July and Memorial Day, Labor Day also brings strong feelings of patriotism and well, lots of really good barbecued food! Labor Day, which is observed the first Monday in September, is a creation of the labor movement and is dedicated to the social and economic achievements of American workers. It's essentially an annual tribute to the contributions workers have made to the strength, prosperity, and well-being of our country. There's much debate, however, as to the origin of Labor Day. Some say Peter J. McGuire, general secretary of the Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners and co-founder of the American Federation of Labor, was first in suggesting a day to honor workers. Some, on the other hand, say that Matthew Maquire, later the secretary of Local 344 of the International Association of Machinists, proposed the holiday in 1882 while serving as a secretary of the Central Labor Union in New York. Regardless of who started the holiday, both men were on the same track in wanting to honor those that labor for our country. The first Labor Day was observed on Tuesday, September 5, 1882 in New York City, in accordance with the plans of the Central Labor Union. In 1884, the first Monday in September was selected as  the selected holiday, as was originally proposed. The form that the observance and celebration of Labor Day should take were outlined in the first proposal of the holiday - a street parade to exhibit to the public "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 celebrations of Labor Day. Speeches by prominent men and women were later introduced, as more emphasis was placed upon the economic and civic significance of the holiday. The basis in which we celebrate Labor Day has changed drastically over the years, but what is celebrated still remains the same - the American worker. No matter how you choose to celebrate this year, we hope you celebrate responsibly and in a way that brings much rest and relaxation. Ernst & Haas Management Co. will be closed Monday, September 5 in observance of Labor Day.