The Workman's Pay: The Effects of the Louisville & Nashville's Workshop on the Local Economy in Paris, Tennessee, from 1900 to 1958

Abstract

This essay argues that the Louisville & Nashville's (L&N) workshops in Paris, Tennessee, provided financial opportunity for the town of Paris to grow until other industries took their place. While the workshops operated, the stream of wages to the employees brought Working-class consumers into existence in a once agricultural town. Although the new reliance on the workshops, beginning in 1900, caused problems in the threats of layoffs, strikes, and shutdowns, the workshops continued as a prominent industry in Paris until the 1950s. By the end of the 1950s, the workshops ceased operations as the L&N sought better placement of its facilities. While a big operation leaving the county caused concern, Paris soon supported other industries inside Henry County and fears of dwindling pay and population proved unfounded. Yet, the workshops left their place in Henry County as part of a once important industry in a small city, the memories now tucked away in the archives.