Labor Day. For many of us it signifies an end to the summer. The end of swimming pools, vacations, boating, and summer fun with family and friends. Even though the calendar year hasn't changed, many of us mentally move into the next year with the start of school, fall sports, new T.V. shows and fall fashion trends.
Last but not least it provides most people a paid day off from work.
Labor Day unofficially began in 1882 in New York to pay tribute to union workers. It's concept spread and in 1894, after the deadly Pullman Strike (a conflict between railroads and labor unions), the U.S. legislature made it into a national holiday.
The Labor Day parade, which is still a large event in most communities, is a representation of "the strength and esprit de corps of the trade and labor organizations." (United States Department of Labor: The History of Labor Day". Retrieved 2011-09-02.)
As you take in your community's Labor Day festivities, enjoy the fall weather with a family BBQ or simply relax to prepare for the work week ahead, take a moment to appreciate the history of the Day and how the physical and mental strength of the American people continues to shape our country.
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