Evolution of an Industry The Garment Industry

Clothing was made at home

from fabric which was made on a loom

from thread

spun from

flax for linen Raw materials

cotton

or wool.

Seamstresses and tailors produced clothing in their homes for individuals. This was called a cottage industry.

Invention The sewing machine was invented by Elias Howe and electrified by Isaac Singer.

With the invention of the sewing machine industrialization of the garment industry began. Factories were built.

Financial Resources Money Building Machines Other Equipment

With the onset of the Civil War changes to the garment industry were needed. The need for Uniforms resulted in Standardized sizes Mass productions

Railroads Carried needed raw materials to factories

Carry finished goods to markets around the country

Availability of Work Force Source of needed labor –Immigrants –Children –Men –Women –African Americans (some former slaves migrating north)

Working Conditions Hazardous Unhealthy Low wages Child Labor Unfair treatment Long hours