Celebrating Labor Day and All Who Put in the Hours and Effort

This is your day.

On Labor Day, we celebrate the grit, tenacity, effort and dedication of American workers. It doesn’t matter whether you’re a first responder, service member, construction worker, salesperson or IT specialist. 

A holiday to celebrate you.

At Fire Dept. Coffee, we celebrate hard-workers like you everyday. Fire Dept. Coffee is owned and operated by first responders and veterans, and supports those that serve our communities. For many, coffee is the go-to drink that fuels us through long shifts and helps us maintain our focus to get the job done.

The History of Labor Day

The story of Labor Day goes back to the Industrial Revolution in the late 19th century. It was the time when manufacturing began to overtake agriculture as the primary source of employment and productivity in the United States.

Yet for many, it was a time of long, hard, dirty work — 12-hour shifts, 7 days a week in many cases — rewarded with low wages and meager benefits. Across the country, workers unionized to stand up for their rights and to speak up against poor treatment.

There were strikes, protests and rallies. There was the occasional riot. 

The first Labor Day parade happened in New York City on September 5, 1882, when 10,000 workers took unpaid time off and marched from City Hall to Union Square.

Slowly, the idea of a worker's holiday gathered momentum and in June 1894 President Grover Cleveland signed a law making Labor Day a federal holiday.

Not Everyone Gets the Day Off for Labor Day

When Labor Day rolls around these days, many people view it as the unofficial end of summer. Vacation season is wrapping up, kids are back to school, and the long weekend offers one last opportunity to kickback at the beach or pool, or gather around a grill cooking burgers and dogs, or having a morning with family and a warm cup of coffee.

Hard work should be rewarded, as it has built the foundation of America today. This Labor Day let us also reflect on those that may not have the day off. If you know someone that is still putting in the hours this Labor Day, take a moment to thank them for their service.

Retail and restaurant workers. Health care professionals. Firefighters. They’re clocking in. 

Electricians and plumbers are standing by, waiting for a call.

Today and every day, we salute them all.

Hard-Working Americans Deserve Great-Tasting Coffee

Whether you’re working on Labor Day or you’re fortunate enough to have the holiday off, we hope you’re pouring a steaming cup of your favorite coffee.

Because great coffee is great anytime. It can give you the energy to put in the work. Or it can be a reward for a job well done.

So drink up and enjoy the day. Maybe even pour a cup of Fire Dept. Coffee for a friend or coworker.