Page:American Journal of Sociology Volume 3.djvu/764

750 intelligent attention displayed by the National Cash Register Company to every detail which can minister to the health and comfort of its employés, thus benefiting both employer and employed, and exemplifying in the most thoroughly practical manner the golden rule — "Whatsoever ye would that men should do unto you, do ye even so unto them;" and,

, This example has taught us new lessons of life and has shown us most forcibly the grand possibilities that await humanity in that future and larger day when each man shall live for all, and all for each; and believing as we do that when all manufacturing establishments in this broad land will follow this shining example, "strikes" will be no more, and our country ushered upon a career of prosperity at home, and of drawing wealth from the wide world, by the excellence of our inventions and manufactures; therefore,

Resolved, That more than a passing recognition should be paid by us to such enlightened enterprise, advanced methods, and beneficent spirit of humanity; and that this association will honor itself more than it can honor the company by extending to the National Cash Register its grateful thanks, etc.

In conclusion it is worthy of note that in no essential, unless it be that of superintendence, is the present factory system changed; only modified as a just appreciation of the responsibility of an employer would dictate. It is also worthy of note that the history of the company has not always been such. Five years ago, during the period of one twelvemonth, the factory was set on fire three times, supposably by disaffected employés. There were many strikes and lockouts. Then the 1,300 employés came to work at 6:30 and worked ten hours per day. At that time, though previous to the present commercial depression, the company was confronted with the loss of $1,000 per day for sixty consecutive days. Then "the president and secretary of the company took off their coats and went right down into the factory department to investigate and find out for themselves what was the trouble." The office of superintendent was abolished, and the organization described above inaugurated. Then step by step the features described were added. It was even found necessary to start a regular school at which it might be demonstrated beyond doubt that the company was honest and sincere; that it wished to treat its working people like men and women, and had no ulterior object in the proposed factory reform. The