A Community's Gift to a Stricken Laborer
When a worker was left destitute and suffering from inflammatory rheumatism, local merchants and friends in Seattle rallied to set him up in his own business.
One of the most touching incidents of the week occurred on Front Street. Two or three years ago, a man married and settled in here, intending to follow his occupation for a living. A year ago, he was stricken with inflammatory rheumatism in his limbs, which has been a heavy drain on his little savings until he was down to bedrock. A few days ago, some of his friends discussed the idea of raising a fund and starting him in business for himself. The response was generous and the boys did the job well. They rented the stand occupied by Mrs. W. A. Webb, which had a new counter and shelving in it. A stock of tobacco and cigars has been ordered, and before the end of the week, Captain Deer Hoyt will be proprietor of the new stand.
“A few days ago, some of his friends discussed the idea of raising a fund and starting him in business for himself. The response was generous and the boys did the job well.”
This story offers a glimpse into the informal social safety nets of 1880s Seattle, where neighbors took personal responsibility for a disabled worker rather than relying on institutional aid. It resonates with current struggles as Seattle residents frequently turn to crowdfunding to cover the medical costs of neighbors in the gig economy.
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