Welfare work at Joseph Bancroft and Sons Company, 1902-1912
Date
1968
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Publisher
University of Delaware
Abstract
This study chronicles a local episode in business Progressivism. The firms involved is the Joseph Bancroft and Sons Company, a Wilmington textile factory founded in 1831. The reform in which this company participated was the movement for the amelioration of working conditions known nationally as Welfare Work. Welfare Work included programs such as hygienic facilities in the factory, dining rooms, safety precautions, medical treatment, “self- improvement" courses, and improved company housing. It was closely associated with the National Civic Federation, the New York City reform organization dedicated to improving relations between capital and labor. The local firm was a member of this Federation and one of the early proponents of Welfare Work. ☐ In administrative terms, Welfare Work marked the advent of specialized management functions in labor relations. Its introduction required a new division of management, the Welfare Department, and produced a new administrative position, the Welfare Secretary. ☐ The Bancroft Company was a conservative, family-owned business. Such companies are usually regarded as conservative, if not reactionary, and far removed from the reform ferment of early twentieth century America. This study suggests the traditional view needs to be tested against the record of specific firms. In the Bancroft experience, local and company traditions smoothed the way for an early introduction of modern welfare capitalism.