Friday, September 01, 2006

Useless Holiday Weekend Fun Fact

I asked Mr. Google how Labor Day got started and apparently we have the Knights of Labor to thank for our upcoming extended weekend.

For those of you who are not familiar with the Knights of Labor don't worry - they were started in the 1860's by a secret labor union made of tailors (tailors?). They organized an annual parade celebrating the fruits of their labor. This is their seal.

I'm still a little confused how a secret labor union could put on a parade. Maybe they held thier parade at night - but whatever. When they eventually they came out of the closet everyone thought they had a great idea so the parade was turned into a national holiday. The first Labor day was on September 2, 1882. There was much celebration.

More than giving us a 3-day weekend, the good Knights also gave us the 8-hour workday - I'm starting to like these guys.

Alright then, there's are your useless holiday fun fact. Now when you hear someone wondering about the origins of Labor Day this weekend you can act real sly by saying, "Have you ever heard of the Knights of Labor?" Then everyone will think you're real smart!

Have a fun and safe weekend, smarty pants!

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