Sunday Laws in the 1800's

Before we dive into the weeds, we first need to talk about how German-Americans spent their Sunday.

Germans in the 1800’s often found themselves drinking at taverns, breweries, or perfecting a craft and starting a business. Sunday for these folk was the day of choice to do these things. It became a way of life and a staple of German culture.

When these Germans immigrated to the United States, they brought these traditions with them. This came to an intersection with the Anglo-Americans who believed in strict adherence to Christian morals that disallowed drinking on Sundays -the day of Sabbath.

These Anglo-Americans argued that allowing liquor and beer to be sold on Sundays increased arrests by police by “more than 25% compared to other Secular days.” Thus disrupting the sanctity and tact of the holy day.

The Anglo-Americans formed committees and rallied against the German-Americans. This resulted in what effectively was lobbying against the German-American culture and traditions.

The article from below found in “The Western Watchman” Circa 21 Jul 1859 confirms that the Anglo-Americans succeeded in St. Louis with lobbying against the Germans. Laws were passed banning the sale of alcohol on Sunday.