The history of Black Friday is a tale that twists and turns like a crowded shopping aisle. While many of us associate the day after Thanksgiving with frenzied shopping and incredible sales, the origins of this retail phenomenon are far less cheerful than the festive atmosphere it now embodies. Let’s stroll through time and uncover the history behind Black Friday, especially as it relates to our charming community in St. Simons, Georgia.

The Financial Roots of Black Friday

The first recorded use of “Black Friday” dates back to September 24, 1869. This was not about holiday shopping but rather a financial crisis involving two notorious Wall Street financiers, Jay Gould and Jim Fisk. They attempted to corner the gold market, driving prices up until their scheme collapsed, leading to a massive stock market crash that affected everyone, from wealthy investors to struggling farmers. This chaotic event marked the day as “black” for many, but not until much later did the term take on its shopping-related connotation.

The Retail Transformation

Fast forward to the 1950s in Philadelphia, where police officers coined the term “Black Friday” to describe the chaos that ensued when hordes of shoppers flooded into the city for the Army-Navy football game held every year on that Saturday. The influx of suburban shoppers created traffic jams and unruly crowds, forcing police to work overtime without any chance for a holiday break. As you can imagine, this was not the kind of fun day retailers would want associated with their sales.

By 1961, the term had gained traction in Philadelphia, prompting local merchants to attempt rebranding it as “Big Friday” to shed its negative image. However, this rebranding did not catch on nationally until much later. It wasn’t until the late 1980s that retailers flipped the narrative around Black Friday, promoting it as a day when stores moved from being “in the red” (operating at a loss) to “in the black” (turning a profit). This clever marketing strategy helped solidify Black Friday as a key date on America’s shopping calendar.

The Myths and Misconceptions

In recent years, some myths have emerged surrounding Black Friday, including an unfounded claim that Southern plantation owners used to buy enslaved workers at discounted prices on this day. This narrative has no historical basis and has led some to call for boycotts of Black Friday sales. It is essential to recognize that while myths can shape perceptions, they do not reflect reality.

Enjoy Black Friday in St. Simons, Georgia

Now that we’ve unraveled some history, let’s discuss how you can enjoy Black Friday in St. Simons, Georgia! Picture this: instead of battling crowds at big-box stores, you can stroll through charming local boutiques and shops offering unique gifts and delightful finds. From clothing at local boutiques like Hope’s Boutique to handcrafted items at various artisan shops, there’s something for everyone.

St. Simons also has several holiday events that sparkle your shopping experience. You can enjoy festive decorations while sipping on hot cocoa or even participate in local art shows and markets showcasing talented artisans from our community. Plus, with beautiful coastal views as your backdrop, your shopping experience will be anything but ordinary.

Embrace the Spirit of Black Friday

As we dive into this bustling season filled with joy and gratitude, remember that Black Friday is more than just a shopping day; it’s an opportunity to support local businesses and connect with your community. By shopping locally in St. Simons, you’re not just finding great deals but also contributing to our vibrant local economy.

So whether you’re a long-time resident or considering making St. Simons your home, embrace the spirit of Black Friday by exploring what our charming island offers this holiday season. In summary, understanding the history of Black Friday enriches our experience of this retail ritual while encouraging us to celebrate our unique community in St. Simons, Georgia. So grab your shopping bags and prepare for an adventure filled with local treasures and holiday cheer!

Source: history.com
Header Image Source: history.com