The History of Labor Day

For many folks Labor Day represents the end of summer, or maybe it means the chance to get a good price on a car.  But when it was created more than 100 years ago, its intent was to honor the contributions workers have made to America.

Labor Day is always the first Monday in September, but through the years, it's become Labor Day weekend with sales at car dealerships or local establishments. 

Important to note that while you may get some great sales at stores, many things are closed on Labor Day. It's best to check ahead before you go somewhere. 

All federal and state government buildings are closed on Monday. For city issues you can still call the Mayor's 24-hour hotline at 617-635-4500. And for police issues you should still call 911.

Banks are also closed. Other businesses may have decreased hours.  

According to the US Department of Labor, the first Labor Day was celebrated in New York City on Tuesday, Sept. 5, 1882, planned by the Central Labor Union.

In 1884, the first Monday in September was selected to be the holiday, and unions throughout the country were encouraged to support the day. 

Oregon was actually the first state to pass legislation about Labor Day, and did so in 1887. Massachusetts was one of four more states that year that passed legislation recognizing Labor Day. 

In 1894, Congress passed an act making the first Monday in September each year to be a federal holiday for Washington D.C. and American territories. By that time, 23 other states had passed legislation recognizing Labor Day.