Colored Girls in the Shirt Factory

July 8, 1899

Summary

Applications flood when a factory is opened for “colored” women, where they can sew shirts.

Transcription

The Old Dominion Shirt Co. has opened a branch factory at 727 N. 3rd St., where colored girls are being employed to make shirts. The sewing machines have been put in position and are run by power—a 7 horse gas-engine—being utilized for this purpose.

Thirteen went to work Monday and more will be employed as fast as they learn to handle the machines. Mr. Wm. Isaac Johnson, who had the contract for furnishing help has had his office besieged by those anxious to obtain employment. The number will soon be increased to 60 persons.
About this article

Location on Page

Lower Right Quadrant

Topic

Contributed By

Elias Sturim

Citation

“Colored Girls in the Shirt Factory,” Black Virginia: The Richmond Planet, 1894-1909, accessed May 12, 2025, https://blackvirginia.richmond.edu/items/show/100.