The National Child Labor Committee was organized in 1904. Up
to that time very little had been done toward preventing the
employment of children in many industries, the worst of these
being the work of coal-breaking in mines and long days of labor
in textile factories. A summary of the work accomplished by the
committee in six years will show the gains that are being made
in saving children from the too heavy burdens of labor at a
tender age, under which their growth is often stunted, and their
education interrupted or prevented.
Eight-hour day for children under 16 established in 10 States
and District of Columbia (in many or all industries).
Hours of employment for children reduced in 13 more States.
Child labor laws passed for the first time in 6 States.
Age limit of 14 years applied to factories and stores: In 1904,
12 States; in 1910, 19 States.
Also from factories and stores the limit in 1910 extends to
offices, laundries, hotels, bowling-alleys, etc.
Age limit of 16 for work in coal-mines; 1904 none. In 1910 6
States fixt limit of 16 years; 18 States at 14, and 8 States at
12.
Employment forbidden during school hours: 1904 in 14 States;
1910 in 23 States.
Night-work prohibited: 1904 in 13 States, the age limit in some
being as low as 12 years. 1910: 24 States with 16-year limit,
7 States with 14-year limit, 2 States with 12-year limit, 1
State (in certain industries) with 18-year limit. New York
prohibited night work in messenger service 10 P.M. to 5
A.M. to all minors.
Compulsory education: Laws for the first time in 6 States. Age
limit for attendance raised in 6 (more) States.
Child-labor laws now (1910) exist in every State except Nevada.
They are being steadily improved.
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See MISSIONARIES IN THE MAKING.