'Portion of Labor' Summary

Ellen Brewster, a young girl born into a family of shoe-mill workers in a Northeastern town, witnesses firsthand the harsh realities of poverty after the mill shuts down. With her family struggling to survive, Ellen’s resilience and determination shine through as she excels in her studies, becoming a source of pride for her community. This story delves into the social fabric of a small town undergoing rapid industrialization, exploring the power dynamics between the wealthy factory owners and the working-class families who rely on the mills for their livelihood. As Ellen navigates the challenges of her upbringing, she encounters individuals from different social strata, developing an understanding of the inequalities prevalent in her society. The story also highlights the emergence of the labor movement and its impact on the lives of ordinary people, capturing the spirit of social change and the fight for fair treatment during a transformative period in American history.