Title
Proclamation recognizing the Pennsylvania Labor History Society for dedicating a state historical marker on September 29, 2007 at Allegheny Landing on Pittsburgh's North Shore to honor the 1840's Cotton Mill Strikers.
Body
WHEREAS, the Pennsylvania Labor History Society will host a state historical marker dedication on September 29, 2007 at Allegheny Landing on Pittsburgh's North Shore to honor the 1840's Cotton Mill Strikers; and
WHEREAS, before there was steel, Pittsburgh was a prime textile center because of its river access to the Southern cotton fields. At mid-century peak, about 1,500 workers, mostly young women and girls, were employed in seven factories; and
WHEREAS, labor turmoil in the cotton mills began in 1843 around agitation for the ten-hour work day and was triggered by wage cuts; and
WHEREAS, in 1845, approximately 5,000 women textile workers struck owners who demanded increased working hours, and they fought for a ban against children under the age of 12 working in the factories; and
WHEREAS, in 1848, the 10-hour day and restrictions on child labor became law in Pennsylvania as a result of the 1845 strike;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that Allegheny County Council does hereby recognize and honor the 1840's Cotton Mill Strikers for their leadership in a labor struggle which resulted in the first 10-hour day and child labor law in Pennsylvania. We commend the Pennsylvania Labor History Society for recognizing the Cotton Mill Strikers with a state historical marker which will remind us all of these largely unknown and forgotten women that effected a change which touches all of us today.