Lyddie: Voices from the Field - Chapter 09 Free Time

Lowell had thousands of workers all on the same mill schedule. The short time between supper and curfew was one of the few times that were available to them to do what they wanted to do. For many, this was a new concept of being able to do what they wanted with so many options Many took advantage of these times to get out with friends and other workers.

Because there were so many people in Lowell with time and money there were many things to do. There were many stores to visit, plays and concerts to attend and places to walk through a park, a garden cemetery or along the river. For those that were interested in learning many were involved in reading and improvement circles and Lowell had a public library. Many people visited Lowell so there were occasions to see people speak at lectures and talks from people from around the country and the world on important topics of the day.
Some women also contributed stories or poems to the Lowell Offering a magazine written and edited by women here in Lowell. And, for those that felt they wanted to become involved there were groups on various topics such as women’s suffrage, anti-slavery and working conditions. One of the groups was the Lowell Female Labor Reform Association that met about working conditions and rights and ultimately led to the 10-hour petition.

For workers in the mills of Lowell the workdays were long but there was free time at the end of the day, for many coming from the farm this was a new idea. Lowell was a city with many people, places to go, things to do and ideas from around the world.

About the Author

Frank Clark is a Park Ranger at Lowell National Historical Park