On 19 September 1849, Oakland, California witnessed a transformative milestone in the history of domestic labour with the establishment of the first commercial laundry service.
As the bustling population in the region grew, particularly during the Gold Rush, the demand for efficient laundry services surged, offering much-needed relief to individuals burdened by labour-intensive hand washing.
This pioneering venture not only provided a solution for the overworked populace but also paved the way for the modern laundry industry, marking the beginning of a new era in household services.
