John Wanamaker Store Philadelphia and J.W.C.I.- 1918

Source: The Store Army – Twelve Thousand Workers – Their Growth Recreation Self-Development and Patriotic Service – 1918 (copyright expired)

J.W.C.I. – John Wanamaker Commercial Institute – among the 12,000 regular employees of JW Philadelphia and New York Stores – was a mandatory enrollment in classes for all employed boys and girls ages 16-18. Extension education classes were conducted to add to youth’s previous grammar school levels of education along with courses in physical training, military drill, hygiene, first aid, public speaking etc. to train and standardize the employee presented to the customer in the store and its services. 

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