Newspaper Carrier Day
About Newspaper Carrier Day
Date When Celebrated: Newspaper Carrier Day is always observed on September 4
International Newspaper Carrier Day is observed on October 10
Both Newspaper Carrier Day and International Newspaper Carrier Day honor everyone who is now, or once was, a newspaper carrier. The list includes thousands, if not millions, of people. Years ago, this job was primarily populated by kids, from pre-teen through approximately sixteen. At that age, many, but not all, kids moved from newspaper delivery to restaurants, grocery stores, and retail type of jobs. Newspaper circulation has been dwindling for a few decades and will likely continue to do so. Online sources of news and information are replacing newspapers
For the record: In 1950, there were 1,772 daily newspapers in the United States. Today, there are only 1,279. The number is expected to continue to drop.
About Newspaper Carrier Day:
This day commemorates the hiring of the very first newspaper carrier. Newspaper carriers date back to the early 1800s. On September 10, 1833, 10-year-old Barney Flaherty became the first newspaper carrier. Benjamin Day, the publisher of The New York Sun, hired Barney Flaherty to sell papers for his penny press. The only job requirement was that he had to show that he could throw a newspaper into the bushes.
Now, few kids deliver papers anymore except in small towns. But, the “Carrier Day” tradition lives. This job is now largely held by adults, many of them delivering the paper from their cars.
About International Newspaper Carrier Day:
This day recognizes the importance of newspaper carriers in getting the newspaper each day into the hands of millions of readers. This day honors carriers all over the world, as they deliver the paper diligently in all kinds of weather conditions.
Even President Ronald Reagan got in on the act. On October 6, 1982, he wrote a brief message supporting this day.
How to Celebrate Newspaper Carrier Day
If you still get the newspaper, give him or her a thank you card.
Also, your carrier will appreciate a monetary gift inside the thank you card.
If you do not receive the newspaper, go online and read a little about newspaper carrier and their history.
Today's Quote
“Half of the American people have never read a newspaper. Half have never voted for President. One hopes it’s the same half.” – – Gore Vidal
History and Origin of Newspaper Carrier Day
We found lots of references and information on Newspaper Carrier Day. However, we do not know (yet) who created it.
And, we do not know who established International Newspaper Carrier Day either. The Newspaper Association of America appears to take some ownership of this holiday and publishes the dates for this event. They also sponsor an International Newspaper Carrier Week.
Also, President Ronald Reagan issued a proclamation making October 26, 1982 Newspaper Carrier Appreciation Day.
Also, see Newspaper Association of America
More About Today
Recipe of the Day: Stewed Tomatoes
Also See: Fall Recipe and Holiday Recipes and Halloween Recipes
Flower of the Day: Moonflower
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