Today in History: First Labor Day
Today in History–September 05–the Library of Congress features the first Labor Day, celebrated on this date in 1882. Organized by New York’s Central Labor Union, a representative group made up of from many local unions, the celebration featured a parade, picnic, concert, and speeches. This event inspired others around the country. In 1887 Oregon became the first state to declare Labor Day an official holiday and the federal government followed suit in 1894. Find out more by visiting the Today in History section, then click the links below to access more primary sources and teaching resources related to Labor Day and labor.
Bill S. 730 establishing Labor Day as a national holiday
Topics in Chronicling America – Labor Day
More Labor Day historical newspaper coverage
Labor day parade march, 1896 (song sheet)
Labor Day parade, c. 1904 (film)
More Labor Day images
Library articles & blog posts
- In Celebration of American Labor Folklife Today
- The First Monday of September Inside Adams
- Labor’s Day Inside Adams
- A Roundup of Labor Day Resources for Teachers Teaching with the Library
- Singing in Solidarity: Women’s Voices Celebrate Labor Day Folklife Today
- The Very First Labor Day America’s Library
- Workers of America Unite! Headlines & Heroes
- World War I: Workers Greet Labor Day 1918 with Optimism Timeless Stories from the Library