Career Services

Who is the Real Father of Labor Day, Maguire or McGuire?

According to the Department of Labor, Labor Day, the first Monday in September, is a creation of the labor movement and is dedicated to the social and economic achievements of American workers.  It constitutes a yearly national tribute to the contributions workers have made to the strength, prosperity, and well-being of our country.

 G91F182_026F
Labor Day Parade, Union Square, New York, 1887. Image ID: G91F182_026F

On August 31, 2015, the Department of Labor posted "The Who, What, Where, When and How of Labor Day.  But There's Some Debate about the 'Who'".

The post presents a brief overview of the history of Labor Day and with a focus on the mystery:  Whose idea was it?  Two heroes emerge in the legend of Labor Day and their names sound alike.  One is Peter J. McGuire, an official in the American Federation of Labor and organizer of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners.  The other is Matthew Maguire, a machinist from the Knights of Labor.  

This year, the Department of Labor is going to try to find out from workers across America who is the founder of Labor Day.  Please read the blog post linked above and cast your ballot for who you think is the real Father of Labor Day.