
Early Closing
The early closing of shops for a whole afternoon (Thursday in Winslow) became a legal requirement under the 1911 Shops Act. A very limited form of early closing was introduced much earlier:
1876: Buckingham Advertiser, 3 June
EARLY CLOSING
To the Editor of the Buckingham Advertiser
SIR- Will you allow me a short space in your paper for a few words on the above subject. Some few months ago, an agreement was made by the tradesmen of this town to close their Establishments at 6 o’clock p.m. every Thursday, to allow the assistants a little more recreation, and as the summer time is coming on it will be appreciated more by them, but lately I find two or three not sticking to the rule, but closing at eight or nine o’clock p.m. as on other nights. I have often heard of the “early bird to catch the worm,” and perhaps the defaulters think they will catch the last “copper” that is to be had. In conclusion I thank the principal tradesmen for not being overruled by such ones, who keep their establishments open till such late hours.
I am, Sir, yours &c.,
Winslow, May 31st 1876. AN ASSISTANT.
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