Shirtwaist Factory-New York's Lower East Side Photo 1911

Early history of the garment industry: “Prior to the mid 19th century, the majority of Americans either made their own clothing, or if they were wealthy, purchased "tailor-made" customized clothing. By the 1820s, however, an increasing number of ready-made garments of a higher quality were being produced for a broader market. The production of ready-made clothing, which continued to grow, completed its transformation to an "industrialized" profession with the invention of the sewing machine in the 1850s. The need for thousands of ready-made soldiers' uniforms during the American Civil War. Uniforms for sailors, western prospectors and plantation slaves further expanding the garment industry. By the end of the 1860s, Americans bought most of their clothing rather than making it themselves.With an ample supply of cheap immigrant labor and a well-established distribution network, New York was prepared to meet the demand." -wiki Shirtwaist Factory-New York's Lower East Side Photo 1911 This