Hi Wylie,

I was wondering if you could tell me what the true reason for Labor Day and how Labor Day originated. I have spoken to several people who all have different definitions. Some say it is to celebrate the ending of summer and others say it is to mark the historic labor crisis. Please help me distinguish the true meaning.

Thanks, 
Don S. 

Well! Helllloooooo Don,

I did a tremendous amount of swimming along the banks of Lake Erie here in Ottawa County to find this answer. The historical researchers I have spoken to suggest Labor Day was declared a national holiday in 1894 and is observed on the first Monday in September.

The roots of Labor Day grew out of violent clashes between labor and police during the Haymarket Riot in 1886, when thousands of workers in Chicago took to the streets to demand an eight-hour workday.

Yes, some people also see it as an end to summer. My Lake Erie friends want me to thank you for asking me such an interesting question.

Happy Holiday Weekend! 
Wylie Walleye and my Lake Erie Friends
and Ottawa County Community