Photo: Stephen Maturen / Getty Images News / Getty Images
Why Is Election Day Always on a Tuesday?
Have you ever wondered why Election Day happens on a Tuesday, when most people are working?
The answer goes back to 1845.
At the time, much of the country depended on farming. Early November worked well because the planting and harvest seasons were mostly over, but winter weather had not yet made travel difficult.
Choosing a day of the week took more planning.
Many voters lived far from their polling places. Getting there could mean walking or traveling by horseback or wagon.
Sunday was typically set aside for church and rest. That made Monday a travel day. Wednesday was market day in many towns, so Tuesday became the best available option.
There is also a reason Election Day happens on the Tuesday after the first Monday in November.
That rule keeps Election Day from falling on November 1, a date that was often used for county court business.
A Tuesday election can feel inconvenient today. In 1845, it matched the way most people lived, worked and traveled.
That old schedule is still with us nearly two centuries later.
Source: The Old Farmer’s Almanac